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Can I collect social security numbers from participants in California? What are the requirements?

Collecting Social Security Numbers in California

Based on the context documents, there are restrictions on collecting and publicly displaying social security numbers in California. According to Civ Code CACL 1798.85, a person or entity may not publicly post or publicly display an individual’s social security number, print it on any card required for the individual to access products or services, require an individual to transmit it over the internet unless the connection is secure or the social security number is encrypted, require an individual to use it to access an internet website unless a password or unique personal identification number or other authentication device is also required, or sell, advertise for sale, or offer to sell an individual’s social security number.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. Social security numbers may be included in applications and forms sent by mail, including documents sent as part of an application or enrollment process, or to establish, amend, or terminate an account, contract, or policy, or to confirm the accuracy of the social security number. A social security number that is permitted to be mailed may not be printed, in whole or in part, on a postcard or other mailer not requiring an envelope, or visible on the envelope or without the envelope having been opened.

In addition, there are specific regulations regarding the collection of social security numbers for voter registration purposes. According to 2 CACR Section 19073 and 19075, social security numbers may be collected for voter registration purposes, but only the last four digits of the social security number may be used for verification of the voter’s identity.

Therefore, if you need to collect social security numbers from participants in California, you must ensure that you are doing so in compliance with the restrictions outlined in Civ Code CACL 1798.85 and the regulations regarding voter registration. It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional to ensure that you are collecting and handling social security numbers in a lawful manner.

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Source(s):
Jurisdiction

California