What constitutes sensitive information in the context of electronic communications?
Sensitive information is information such as Social Security numbers, driver license numbers, credit card information, medical/health conditions, etc. None of this information should be sent via email, regardless of the email provider. As a general rule, privacy experts advise to consider whether it would be appropriate or desirable for the contents of the email to appear in a public forum (e.g., newspaper). Email operates as a postcard that can easily be read in transit and at the destination by unauthorized parties. It could be retained forever, or shared with unintended readers. For more detail please see our Email Best Practices page, email.ucdavis.edu/email/Email_Best_Practices_04_16_08_v4.php .
