What is private data?

Many kinds of information require reasonable levels of protection. Inappropriate handling of private data could result in legal, ethical, or other constraints. Because of this, private information may not be accessed without specific authorization and only selective access may be granted. Examples include:

• Last 4 digits of Social Security Numbers (SSN)
• Individual student grades, academic transcript, class schedule, date of birth, or advising notes
• ZipCard barcodes for students, staff, and faculty
• Employee home addresses
• Faculty/Staff Immunization records
• Detailed floor plans showing gas, water, and sprinkler shut-offs, as well as the locations of hazardous materials

Usually, a private information element needs to be accompanied by an individual’s name in order to result in harm due to inappropriate handling, but not always.

If you are unsure whether you need to apply special care and handling to the information elements and assets you use, please contact the Office of Information Security at security@uakron.edu.