Is it possible to correct information in a downloaded GED COM file?

Question

I've downloaded a GEDCOM file that contains incorrect information in reference to a ggreatmother.

The file is in my family tree builder but not merged with my other family project listing the correct information.

It is the wrong person or wife information. This person would have been 3 years of age when the first child was born.

This file also list a number of children that did not belong to this couple, while listing some of the children that belonged to the correct parents.

Thanks for your suggestions

Answer 1

My experience is storing MY DATA in program on my own computer, not online.  I have learned the hard way.. that merging files from someone else can become a huge nightmare (for just the reasons you mention), so good that you have kept it separate.

Any file that someone ELSE has uploaded to online sites.. is their property, so.. no, YOU cannot edit that file which is online.  In some cases, you can contact the file owner, and explain why you know the info is incorrect.  Whatever is stored ON YOUR SYSTEM is your file.. but you go back to it being CRITICAL for keeping track of where any facts at all, originated.  That can be really a challenge.

Good for you, that you spotted an error.  The hard part is knowing how many many persons are never aware that online files are a risk of wrong info.

The file owner may be grateful for your input.  Other times, some are wrapped up in it being "their" research, and block out any input as to accuracy.  Or.. they copied it from a copy of a copy of a copy... and have no idea where the start of the problem really is.