What type of information is considered sensitive and is exempt from public disclosure?

Personal identifying information is deemed sensitive because it directly relates to an individual's identity and privacy. This type of information includes names, addresses, social security numbers, and other data that can be used to identify or contact a person. The protection of such information from public disclosure is crucial to safeguarding individuals from identity theft, harassment, and other potential forms of exploitation.

In contrast, employment history, educational background, and criminal records, while they may entail personal details, do not carry the same level of sensitivity that directly relates to an individual's immediate physical safety or risk of identity theft. Employment and educational histories might be shared in various contexts, especially when considering applications for jobs or academic programs, often with the consent of the individual. Criminal records, although sensitive, can be publicly accessible under certain circumstances and are often made available for background checks, particularly for occupations that require a high degree of trust or responsibility. Thus, personal identifying information is uniquely classified as sensitive and exempt from public disclosure.