According to a disturbing story that appeared here over the weekend, estate agents' listings portal Rightmove has opened its database - which includes photographs and detailed descriptions and floorplans - to HM Revenue & Customs' Valuation Office Agency, giving them access to current and old records until 2008. Why? To enable them to gather information about recent home improvements, and possibly add to your council tax. Does it sound to you like a betrayal of trust? It does to us.

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