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Can I use third-party social media tools that collect personal information in Alaska? What are the requirements?
Use of Third-Party Social Media Tools in Alaska
Alaska has strict laws regarding the use and disclosure of personal information, including social security numbers. The use of third-party social media tools that collect personal information is subject to these laws.
According to AKST 45.48.400, a person may not intentionally communicate or otherwise make available to the general public an individual’s social security number. This includes the use of social security numbers in third-party social media tools.
Additionally, AKST 45.48.430 prohibits a person doing business, including the business of government, from disclosing an individual’s social security number to a third party. This includes third-party social media tools.
However, there are exceptions to these prohibitions. For example, AKST 45.48.450 allows a person to disclose an individual’s social security number to an employee or agent of the person for a legitimate purpose established by and as directed by the person. This may include the use of third-party social media tools by employees or agents of a business.
Requirements for Using Third-Party Social Media Tools in Alaska
If a business chooses to use third-party social media tools that collect personal information, they must ensure that they are in compliance with Alaska’s laws regarding the use and disclosure of personal information.
According to AKST 40.25.300, when a state agency requests personal information that may be included in a public record directly from the person who is the subject of the information, the agency must give the person a written notice at the time of the request that includes a statement of the agency’s anticipated uses of the information, including the agency’s internal uses of the information and disclosure of the information to other state agencies.
While this law specifically applies to state agencies, it is a good practice for businesses to provide similar notice to individuals whose personal information they collect through third-party social media tools.
Additionally, businesses must ensure that they are not violating AKST 45.48.400 and AKST 45.48.430 by intentionally communicating or disclosing an individual’s social security number to a third party.
If a business is unsure about their obligations under Alaska’s laws regarding the use and disclosure of personal information, they should consult with a legal professional.
[1.1][2.1][1.2][1.3][1.4][1.5][3.1][2.2]
Source(s):
- [1.1] Use of social security number.
- [2.1] Notice regarding personal information.
- [1.2] Disclosure.
- [1.3] Agency regulations.
- [1.4] Interagency disclosure.
- [1.5] Exception for employees, agents, and independent contractors.
- [3.1] Access to media.
- [2.2] Definitions.
Jurisdiction
Alaska