Definition - What does Identifier mean?
An identifier is a fact that can connect information to a specific person or thing. In the context of workplace record keeping, an identifier refers to information that can be linked to a particular individual. A fact is an identifier if it can be used alone or in combination with additional information to identify or locate a person. An identifier might also be referred to as personally identifiable information (PII) for subjects such as healthcare.
SureHire explains Identifier
Examples of identifiers include a person’s name and address. A person’s mother’s maiden name, place and date of birth, or IP address are also identifiers. Other examples of identifiers include credit card numbers, property ownership records, photographs, and medical information. Any information, even if collected from different sources, that could be combined to identify the individual is considered an identifier. The use of identifiers is necessary for many purposes. Identifiers are also highly sought after by businesses and others who can profit from obtaining an individual’s personal information.
Federal and state laws govern the use and protection of personally identifiable information (PII). These laws cover the use and handling of personal identifiers. Employers, medical providers, and other entities are all required by law to safeguard the personally identifiable information to which they have access.
