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University Identification (UID) Number

Check out your new UID number. It’s a nine-digit number that looks like this: 800-55-5555 and it’s found on the front of your new Redbird Card.

Redbird Card example

Say “hello” to your University Identification (UID) Number ... and “goodbye” to using your Social Security Number (SSN) when it comes to filling out Illinois State University records and documents or using university services.

Do I have to memorize my UID number?

No. Use your Redbird Card just like you use a credit card for many university services, ranging from check cashing to the library.

Who gets a UID?

UID numbers are being issued to all university faculty and staff ... plus students, applicants for admission to the University, and alumni.

When will the UID become effective?

The initial conversion of university computerized records from SSNs to UIDs will take place over Memorial Day weekend, 2005. New students will get their UID on application to the University and new staff will get their UID upon employment.

Why did the university switch from SSNs?

Two words: identity theft.

The Associated Press reports that more than 11,000 Illinois residents said they were victims of identity theft last year—and that’s up 15 percent from 2003, according to a federal report. Identity theft is the number-one fraud complaint made by consumers. Illinois had the nation’s 10th-highest rate of identity theft reported in 2004. And, nationally, identity thefts climbed nearly 15 percent last year to 246,570 complaints.

What are my responsibilities in using the UID system?

Manage your UID.

Don’t lose it—use it! And don’t use your SSN on university forms, records, documents, or for university services, and don’t give your SSN or UID to others.

Help others to be responsible.

Make your staff aware of the new UID system, transition away from using SSNs by June 1, 2005.

Protect the privacy rights of others.

Follow university policy and purge SSNs from your electronic files...check your computer records for files using SSNs and delete them, archive them to CDs, or convert them to UIDs

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