Data Security
UW Data and Your Responsibilities
Social Security Number (SSN) Data Security Framework
Overview
The University of Washington is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information related to students, faculty, staff, and other individuals associated with the University. The University recognizes the risk and impact that the improper disclosure of SSNs can have on individuals who have entrusted this information to the organization.
The University of Washington routinely collects Social Security Numbers (SSNs) in support of several federal requirements such as W-2 tax forms and student educational tax credit reporting. SSNs are considered confidential data according to the UW Administrative Policy Statement (APS) 2.10, UW Minimum Data Security Standard. Unauthorized release of SSN (and other personally-identifiable information) by the UW exposes individuals to identity theft and fraud, and brings financial and reputational harm to the UW.
Everyone who is accountable for the management or use of SSN data must also become familiar with other university-wide and departmental policies and procedures related to records management and security, which are published separately.
For more information about policies, training, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in relation to the protection of SSN data, please click here.

