Personally Identifiable Information (PII), as used in information security, refers to information that can be used to uniquely identify, contact, or locate a single person or can be used with other sources to uniquely identify a single individual. Personally identifiable information (PII) includes any data about an individual that could, potentially identify that person, such as a name, fingerprints or other biometric data, email address, street address, telephone number or social security number.
Alaska Acknowledgment of Obligations with Regard to Personally Identifiable Information is a legal document that outlines the responsibilities and duties of entities operating in the state of Alaska regarding the protection and handling of personally identifiable information (PIN). This acknowledgment is crucial for organizations that handle sensitive data to effectively understand and comply with the state's regulations in safeguarding personal information. The Alaska Acknowledgment of Obligations with Regard to Personally Identifiable Information establishes guidelines that organizations must follow when collecting, storing, using, and disclosing PIN. This encompasses a range of sensitive information, including but not limited to names, social security numbers, financial account numbers, addresses, and medical records. By adhering to these obligations, businesses and other covered entities contribute significantly to maintaining individuals' privacy and ensuring the secure handling of their sensitive data. There are various types of organizations that should pay special attention to comply with the Alaska Acknowledgment of Obligations with Regard to Personally Identifiable Information: 1. Healthcare Providers: This category includes hospitals, clinics, doctors, and other medical professionals who handle patient records and health information. These entities must adhere to strict privacy standards outlined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in addition to state regulations. 2. Financial Institutions: Banks, credit unions, insurance companies, and other entities that handle customers' financial data fall into this category. They must follow stringent regulations dictated by federal laws like the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (ALBA) as well as any additional obligations laid out by Alaska. 3. Government Agencies: State and local government bodies, as well as agencies at various levels, are responsible for safeguarding the personal information they collect as part of their official duties. These entities must comply with both federal regulations, like the Privacy Act of 1974, and specific obligations established by Alaska laws. 4. Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities handle vast amounts of student data, including personally identifiable information. They must ensure that this information is protected, especially for students who are minors. Compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FER PA) is crucial in this regard. 5. Businesses and Organizations: Beyond the aforementioned sectors, any business or organization that collects and stores PIN falls under the purview of the Alaska Acknowledgment of Obligations with Regard to Personally Identifiable Information. This includes online retailers, e-commerce platforms, social media networks, and any other entity that gathers personal data. Compliance with the Alaska Acknowledgment of Obligations with Regard to Personally Identifiable Information is essential for all covered entities to mitigate the risks of data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized use of personal information. By understanding and fulfilling their obligations, organizations contribute to creating a secure environment for individuals' sensitive data and uphold Alaskans' privacy rights.
