Understanding and protecting Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is crucial in today’s digital age, where such data can easily identify an individual. PII encompasses a range of information, from basic details like Date of Birth and Address to more sensitive data, and is governed by various compliance regulations.
The Scope and Sensitivity of PII
PII is not always sensitive but can become critical in contexts like healthcare, where it’s used for patient verification. In a data breach, even basic PII can lead to identification and significant privacy violations.
Compliance with PII Regulations
Various laws, including the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), mandate how organizations should handle PII. These regulations span across industries, from financial institutions to educational entities, with significant legal penalties for non-compliance.
Sharing PII with Third Parties
Certain laws permit the sharing of PII with third parties, provided it doesn’t lead to individual identification. For example, schools may disclose aggregate scores or research data without infringing on student privacy.
The Importance of PII Protection
Protecting PII is not just a legal requirement but a crucial aspect of maintaining trust and security in any organization’s operations. Compliance with PII-related laws ensures that personal information is handled responsibly and securely.
Works Cited
- U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION. (2014). FERPA Exceptions HANDOUT.
