CP101: Personally Identifiable Information

Summary

This video discusses Personally Identifiable Information (PII), defining it as data that can identify an individual, including public and private details like names, addresses, and account numbers. It highlights the risks of identity theft and the importance of safeguarding PII. Viewers are urged to be cautious when sharing information, only providing what's necessary for services. The video also emphasizes secure storage and destruction of documents containing PII and advises against using unsecured networks for transactions. Ultimately, it advocates for consumer protection awareness through educational resources on social media.

Takeaways

• 😀 PII refers to any data that can identify a specific individual.
• 😀 Examples of PII include full name, address, birthday, and email.
• 😀 Sensitive PII includes government-issued identification numbers, like Social Security and driver's license numbers.
• 😀 Student ID numbers and financial account numbers are also considered PII.
• 😀 Wisconsin's legal definition of PII includes biometric data if it's not publicly available and not encrypted.
• 😀 Identity theft can occur if PII is accessed by unauthorized individuals.
• 😀 Always question why someone is requesting your PII and whether it's necessary.
• 😀 Securely store or destroy documents containing PII to prevent unauthorized access.
• 😀 Avoid providing PII over unsecured networks or on shared devices.
• 😀 Consider enrolling in consumer protection resources to better understand and safeguard your PII.

Q & A

What is Personally Identifiable Information (PII)?

PII is any data that could potentially be used to identify a particular person, including both public and private information.

Can you give examples of PII?

Examples of PII include your full name, address, birthday, email addresses, Social Security number, driver's license number, and financial account numbers.

What does the legal definition of PII in Wisconsin include?

In Wisconsin, PII is defined as a person's last name combined with their first name or initial, along with specific government identification or biometric data if not publicly available.

Why is PII important to protect?

Protecting PII is crucial because it can be used to steal identities, access financial accounts, and create fraudulent accounts, potentially impacting a person's financial future.

What precautions should you take when sharing PII?

Always ask if the entity really needs the information, provide only what is necessary, and ensure that the forms are secured or destroyed.

How should you handle physical documents that contain PII?

Documents like bills or bank statements should be securely locked away or destroyed when no longer needed to prevent unauthorized access.

What steps should you take to secure your PII online?

Avoid providing PII on unsecured networks, be cautious with communal devices, and wipe saved history after use.

What risks are associated with using communal terminals?

Communal terminals may save your account information and passwords, leading to unauthorized access to your PII.

How can you stay informed about consumer protection related to PII?

You can stay informed by subscribing to consumer protection resources, such as YouTube channels or following them on social media.

What types of private information are considered PII?

Private information includes data such as your Social Security number, financial account numbers, and biometric data like fingerprints.