Social security numbers (SSNs) are one of the most sensitive types of personally identifiable information (PII) and are subject to comprehensive data security and privacy laws at both the federal and state levels. Banks, as financial institutions, are subject to strict regulations under laws like the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) and state privacy laws regarding the safeguarding of sensitive data like SSNs.

Why Social Security Numbers are Most Likely to Be Covered:

SSNs are a high-value target for identity theft, making their protection a focus of numerous privacy and data security laws.

Federal laws like GLBA and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) impose strict data security requirements on financial institutions.

State laws, such as those in California, often require businesses to protect SSNs and notify individuals in the event of a breach involving sensitive information.

Explanation of Options:

A. Account holders' social security numbers, maintained by a bank:This is correct because SSNs are consistently protected under comprehensive laws at both the federal and state levels.

B. Users' sexual orientations, maintained by a social media website:While sexual orientation may be considered sensitive data under certain laws (e.g., GDPR in the EU), U.S. privacy laws do not consistently regulate this information.

C. Individual drivers' license numbers, maintained by a state agency:While some states regulate drivers' license data, this information is not comprehensively covered under state privacy laws.

D. Contact details of individuals who report emergencies, maintained by local authorities:This information is regulated in limited circumstances (e.g., Freedom of Information Act or public records laws) but is not subject to comprehensive state privacy laws.

References from CIPP/US Materials:

GLBA and FCRA: Highlight the importance of safeguarding sensitive financial information such as SSNs.

State Data Breach Notification Laws: Many states explicitly list SSNs as a protected data element.