Personal identifier

Personal Identifiers also known as PID are a subset of personally identifiable information (PII) data elements that identify a unique individual and can permit another person to “assume” that individual’s identity without their knowledge or consent.

This can occur when PID data elements are use:

1. alone
2. combined with a person’s name,
3. combined with other PID data elements OR
4. combined with other PII

Examples of PID

Examples provided only as guidance, there may be others used in your location and they may vary by country or region.

Privately issued ID credentials

• Benefit plan participation number
• Private health care authorization, access, or identification number

Transactional financial account numbers

• Bank account number
• Credit/debit card account number
• Personal identification number (PIN)

Biometric identifiers

• Fingerprint/voiceprint
• Iris/retinal scans
• DNA

Health or medical information

• National Health certificate number

Electronic identification credentials

• Digital certificates
• Passwords

Full Date of Birth

• Month, day and year

1990-08-31

European-defined sensitive data

Treated as PID globally, not just for citizens of the EU

• Racial or ethnic origin
• Political opinions
• Religious or philosophical beliefs
• Trade-union membership
• Health or sex life
• Offenses, criminal convictions, or security measures
• Proceedings from crimes or offenses

See also

• Identity score