Student IDs are redesigned for safety

tarting this summer and continuing through the fall, the University is assigning every student a new, eight-digit identification number to eliminate the use of Social Security numbers (SSN). Several central systems have been modified to use the new number to identify students. In addition, redesigned ID cards are being issued to students. Lynne Davidson, associate provost, answers some questions about the changes.

Why is the University introducing new student ID cards?

Protecting a student's personal information is always a top priority for the University. A law signed by Governor Pataki in August 2000 sparked the change that resulted in the redesign.

The law states that public and private learning institutions in New York can no longer display a student's Social Security number as a student identifier in a public listing, on lists provided to teachers, or on ID cards. The University supports this new legislation and feels very strongly that all efforts should be made to protect our students' privacy rights.

That's why we have taken this extra step, above and beyond what the law requires, to remove all Social Security numbers not only from the student ID cards and public displays but from many of the University's electronic systems.

How have the student ID cards changed?

Before the redesign, the student's Social Security number was embedded in the magnetic strip on the back of the card and the library patron code was displayed next to the bar code strip on the front of the card.

Now both the magnetic strip and the bar code are embedded with the new, eight-digit identification number. No numbers are visible on the card.

The cards also have a different appearance--most River Campus ID cards feature an aerial view of the River Campus, Eastman ID cards feature a picture of Eastman Theatre, and Medical School ID cards feature the Medical Center.

College version of the ID card

How will students know what their new ID numbers are?

Students will receive a copy of their new numbers when they pick up their ID cards. Students also can use ACCESS, which provides online access to student records and information, to locate their new ID numbers. Finally, students may have noticed their new numbers on their tuition bills.

Where should students pick up their new ID cards? And is there a deadline for turning in old cards?

The new ID cards are being produced using student photos stored in digital files. Students on campus this summer may go to the River Campus ID office during regular business hours for their cards. Students returning in the fall and living on campus will receive new cards during check-in to residential housing. Students who live off campus should pick up new cards at their campus ID office as soon as possible.

While there is no deadline, students who regularly use their ID cards are encouraged to get their new cards quickly so that they are not inconvenienced by old cards that no longer work at dining centers, in dorm security doors, and other locations. We do request that students turn in their old cards when they pick up the new card. A $10 fee will be charged for not returning the old cards.

Is there anything else students should know?

We want students to know that the University has spent many months planning and preparing for this changeover. We expect a seamless process with minimal inconvenience. The University will continually strive to offer the highest level of security and protection for students.

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