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The definition of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) varies in specifics, depending on the source being cited. However, there are generally five different components that create a set of information that can identify an individual, hence the term “personally identifiable information.”
PII is generally “created” when an individual’s name is combined with one or more of the following attributes:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- State-issued driver’s license or identification card number
- Credit or debit card (with or without a Personal Identification Number (PIN))
- Bank account number (with or without any required security code, access code, or password that would permit access to the financial account
The reason for this is one component by itself is not enough to steal an individual’s identity. However, when these components are combined it provides an identity thief with enough pieces of the puzzle to steal an identity. This could be opening a credit card account, taking out a loan, using someone else’s medical insurance, or even obtaining valid ID such as a driver’s license. This is why it is so important to safeguard PII from unauthorized disclosure.
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