Policy to Access Accounts of Deceased or Incapacitated Individuals Announced

The University at Buffalo is committed to the protection and confidentiality of electronic information. However, the university recognizes that it may be necessary to allow access to electronic data contained within a deceased or incapacitated individual’s UB account.

A request to access electronic data must originate from a legally authorized individual (e.g., executor, holder of power of attorney) supported by a legal document demonstrating authorization.

Electronic data will be released as permitted by law, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), the Personal Privacy Protection Law (PPPL), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). In the event of a dispute over the ownership and release of electronic data, the legally authorized individual may make an appeal to the Office of General Counsel.

This policy applies to the electronic data associated with an individual’s UBITName.

Questions can be directed to the Information Security Officer or the Office of General Counsel.