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Can I use third-party customer service tools that collect personal information in Alaska? What are the requirements?
Based on the provided context documents, it is important to note that Alaska has strict regulations regarding the use and disclosure of personal information. Specifically, 7 AKAC 85.205 states that the Department of Health and Social Services will retain control and custody of information submitted under this chapter, and will only disclose that information in the form of nonidentifying aggregate data, except as allowed under (c) of this section. Additionally, the department will limit the use of identifying information to purposes directly related to the administration of mental health or substance abuse programs, and will not disclose identifying information unless the disclosure is specifically authorized by state or federal law.
Furthermore, AKST 45.48.400 prohibits the intentional communication or other availability of an individual’s social security number to the general public, and restricts the printing of social security numbers on cards required for individuals to access products or services. It also requires secure transmission of social security numbers over the internet and prohibits the use of social security numbers as the sole means of accessing an internet website.
Given these regulations, it is important to ensure that any third-party customer service tools used in Alaska comply with these requirements. Specifically, any personal information collected by these tools must be kept confidential and only used for purposes directly related to the administration of mental health or substance abuse programs, unless specifically authorized by state or federal law. Additionally, social security numbers should not be collected or used as the sole means of accessing products or services, and should be transmitted securely over the internet.
It is recommended that you consult with legal counsel to ensure that your use of third-party customer service tools complies with all applicable regulations in Alaska.
[7 AKAC 85.205][AKST 45.48.400]
Jurisdiction
Alaska