36.1 Introduction
This policy governs the use of social security numbers (SSNs) at The University of Iowa and recognizes the use of the University ID (Univ ID) as the primary identification number for students and employees and any person with a recurring business relationship with the University. The University is committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of an individual's SSN. Therefore, the use of the SSN as an identification number within the University shall be limited.
The Federal Privacy Act of 1974 and related amendments establish guidelines regarding state agency requests for the social security number. It is the duty of the University to inform individuals whether a given use of SSN is mandatory, the law or statute that specifies its necessity, its principal purpose(s), routine use, and the effects of not providing it. This policy provides guidelines on the proper use and disclosure of SSNs to ensure that those requirements are met.