The transmission of Social Security numbers through electronic mail involves conveying this sensitive data from one party to another using email systems. This practice often occurs when individuals or organizations require the number for identification, verification, or administrative purposes. For example, a potential employee might email their SSN to a new employer for payroll setup.
Such transmission poses significant security risks and compliance challenges. Historically, unsecured email has been a vulnerable vector for data breaches and identity theft. Therefore, the use of email for transmitting this information necessitates careful consideration of security protocols and adherence to regulatory requirements to protect individuals from potential harm.