Social security numbers are used at K-State as student identification numbers. Those numbers are personally identifiable information protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, 20 U.S.C. '1232g (the Buckley Amendment). As such, they may not be disclosed to persons who do not fall within specifically enumerated exceptions (such as school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the information), unless there is written consent that complies with specific requirements described in the law. Therefore, the social security number of a student should not be displayed in any manner that is accessible to others not specifically permitted to have access under the law. This is particularly important when using web-based or other electronic media.
While it is best to use K-State Online to post grades such that they are accessible only to each individual student, if faculty must post grades such that they are visible to others, it is preferable to use a random code or one chosen by the student that does not make the student's identity easily traceable and is not a part of the student's social security number or student identification number.
Finally, stolen or misappropriated social security numbers lead to numerous theft-of-identity and credit theft cases around the world, causing serious harm to the individuals whose numbers are misused. That is another reason not to post grades by social security numbers.
Please ensure that we are in compliance with this important requirement. Contact the Office of University Attorney if you or your faculty have questions about this.