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DPCLO Guidance

Defense Privacy Board Advisory Opinions

THE APPEARANCE OF THE SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER IN THE WINDOW OF AN ENVELOPE CONTAINING RECORD INFORMATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A DISCLOSURE

The appearance of the Social Security number (SSN) in a window envelope does not constitute a disclosure as contemplated by the Privacy Act. Prior to delivery to the recipient, the only likely disclosure is to personnel of the postal service who handle the letter in the performance of their official duties under agreement with the Department of Defense. However, when revising formats of the document or envelope, consideration should be given to preventing the appearance of the SSN through the window of the envelope.