The process of getting a copy of your birth certificate is much easier today than it was in the past. Today, all you have to do is request the copy of the birth certificate online. You fill out an application form, provide a few details and, a few clicks later, your birth certificate request is processed. In the past, depending on when you were born, things could be much more challenging and time-consuming.

A birth certificate is a very personal document with some pretty basic information. Encryption is used every day for online purchases and secures everything from your name and address to credit card information. So, how do they mesh in cyberspace?

Your birth certificate is your most important document. It’s how you prove your citizenship, how you verify you really are who you say you are, and even what you need to replace nearly all of your other documents.