Encryption Policy (UBIT HIPAA)

Category: HIPAA Security
Responsible Office: UBIT HIPAA Compliance
Responsible Executive: Vice President and Chief Information Officer (VPCIO)
Approved By (Name/Title): J. Brice Bible, VPCIO

CATEGORY: Technical Safeguards
TYPE: Addressable Implementation Specification for Transmission Security Standard
CITATION: 45 CFR 164.312(e)(2)(ii)

The University at Buffalo Information Technology (UBIT) operates as a covered entity as defined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights. HIPAA Regulation Text 45 CFR Part 164.312(e)(1) requires UBIT to implement security measures to ensure that electronically transmitted ePHI is not improperly modified or accessed by utilizing encryption wherever ePHI is housed or transmitted.

As a result of its risk analysis, as specified in its Risk Analysis Policy, UBIT uses encryption to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI during transmission over unsecured electronic communications networks. 

UBIT protects its cryptographic keys against modification and destruction.

UBIT protects its private keys against unauthorized disclosure. 

UBIT implements a process for managing the cryptographic keys used to encrypt ePHI transmitted over unsecured electronic communications networks.

This policy applies to all UBIT workforce members.

Workforce members: Adhere to all policies and procedures as written.

HIPAA Security and Privacy Officer: Whenever possible, ensures that UBIT uses encryption to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI during transmission over unsecured electronic communications networks.

Compliance Officer: Participate in ensuring security of ePHI is effective and enforced, in conjunction with the HIPAA Security and Privacy Officer.

Date Approved: 12/6/2017