Encrypted Email at TG
Managing electronic information has become a visible and highly regulated activity. Breaches of information and changes in federal and state laws have all changed the way companies handle and transmit information. TG is taking several actions in a continuing effort to ensure that our corporation's data, customer information, and student/parent confidential and personal information remains secure.
To protect the privacy of non-public personal information (NPI) sent via email, TG will secure outbound email messages containing NPI through email encryption, using a Cisco Systems® product. The software is capable of identifying and encrypting email sent from TG that may contain NPI based on parameters set by TG. This includes, but is not limited to, Social Security numbers and account numbers.
How does email encryption work?
Email encryption software is designed to protect email messages in one of two ways: by making them undecipherable as they are transmitted over the Internet, or by enclosing the data in a secure 'envelope' which only the recipient can open, using a password.
As modern technology makes it more efficient to conduct transactions over the Internet, more consumers are taking advantage of the convenience. However, unsecured email transmissions can be intercepted, potentially exposing individuals to fraud or identity theft, particularly if the messages include NPI.
Although no approach is error-proof, email encryption significantly lessens the opportunity to intercept email messages containing sensitive or personal information as they are transmitted over the Internet.
How does TG use email encryption?
The recipient of an encrypted email from TG will receive a message in their email inbox with an attachment. The message will have an envelope graphic as well as the TG corporate logo with a block where the recipient may enter a password. In the first encrypted email, there will also be a link to register.
In registering, the recipient chooses a password and security questions, which would be used to help reset the recipient's password in the event the password is ever lost. The Cisco product can also "remember" the recipient's information, making it unnecessary to provide the password when receiving other encrypted emails from TG.
The attachment, which is a link to an HTML page with the text of the email, is stored in the recipient's local email account. The email can be forwarded, saved, or printed just like any other email; the text of the attachment can be copied and pasted. Neither the email nor its attachment is stored at TG or on the Cisco Systems servers.
Why has TG elected to use email encryption?
TG remains committed to providing the highest level of customer service, and this includes using available technology designed to protect non-public personal information transmitted via the Internet.
Where can I get more information or assistance?
This page has been created to provide information regarding email encryption and its use at TG. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact TG customer assistance by sending an email message to cust.assist@tgslc.org or by calling (800) 845-6267.
For questions about the Cisco Systems product or use, please visit the Cisco Systems website: https://res.cisco.com/websafe/termsOfService.
