Re: Last 4 digits of SSN and birthdate

[Kevin Shalla <kshalla () UIC EDU>]

Am I guessing correctly that the advancement database uses SSN as the
key to the records?  That sounds like a big risk right there -
everyone who works in advancement then has access to this
information!  Although it's probably not what this person wants to
hear, I would reply with "You had better not print any part of the
SSN on anything external, otherwise your prospects will guess that
advancement staff has free access to SSNs, and this will likely cause
an outrage among the prospects, and you certainly don't want to upset
prospects.  It would be far better to convert the keys to some other
number unrelated to SSN, then you can print that number all you want,
no one will complain, and the staff will be able to do quick searches."

At 12:49 PM 10/26/2005, Elizabeth Shannon wrote:
> A representative of University Advancement contacted me and wanted
> to know if printing a person's birthday (MM/DD/YYYY) and the last 4
> digits of the person's SSN on pledge cards was acceptable.  The
> reason for "needing" this info is it allows staff to search the
> alumni database much faster.  Other info printed on the card: first
> name, middle initial, last name, phone number, and address.
>
> I can not find any sources prohibiting their request, but I am not
> comfortable with displaying this info. I am concerned with the
> precedence this  may set with other departments.  Any suggestions or
> links to info would be appreciated.
>
> Elizabeth Shannon
> Pittsburg State University - Kansas