Some employees have access to confidential information regarding the Institute or personal data about faculty, staff, or students. Handling and maintaining the security of such data is one of an employee's most important responsibilities. Special care must be taken not to divulge or inadvertently reveal confidential information to anyone, including over the telephone. An employee should never release any confidential information without clearance from her or his department head. Questions regarding the release of confidential information should be directed to the department head or the Office of Human Resources.