Storage of sensitive data (tenants)

[Bienes Raices]

Like most people on here, I suppose, I now have old tenant applications with SS#s, birthdates, etc. Currently I am keeping them in a locked file cabinet (although my agreement with the credit service just says I have to keep them in a "secure place"). I was thinking of storing electronic versions on Crashplan or one of the the other backup services, and putting the originals in a safety deposit box.
I was wondering how other people handle this situation?

[Brad B.]

Given the attention being paid by various levels of government to PII or personally identifiable information in recent years, it may be in your best interest to research what specific requirements you have in your state. Some states are more strict than others, which leads to an interesting situation if you have tenant information for a person who moved from your state to someplace like New York or Massachusetts.

You normally can take appropriate measures while storing and using such data that conform with accepted best practices. The problem arises in the event of disclosure. Some states have very specific notification laws that must be followed or you risk civil and criminal sanctions.

Your best bet is to spend some time either giving a call to or perusing your state Attorney General's website and see what they have to say about it.