Which term best describes information used to identify an individual, including name and social security number?

The term that best describes information used to identify an individual, including their name and social security number, is Personally Identifiable Information (PII). PII encompasses various data points that can be used on their own or in conjunction with other information to determine an individual's identity. This includes not only names and social security numbers but also addresses, birth dates, and other distinguishing information.

Understanding the classification of PII is critical in fields such as data administration and cybersecurity, where the protection of personal information is paramount. Organizations are required to handle PII with care to avoid identity theft, privacy breaches, and legal ramifications associated with improper handling of such sensitive information. Recognizing this helps in implementing appropriate data management policies to safeguard individuals' privacy.

Other options refer to different types of information that do not encompass the full scope of what PII represents. Confidential information, for example, might include proprietary or sensitive business data rather than individual identification. Protected Health Information specifically pertains to health-related data protected under regulations like HIPAA, and public records usually refer to information that is accessible by the general public, lacking the personal sensitivity that PII carries.