What is HarvardKey?
HarvardKey is the authentication system managed by Harvard University Information Technology (HUIT). It’s designed to provide secure access to various Harvard University resources through a single sign-in. When users connect to HarvardKey, they sign in with their account to access a range of applications, including the HarvardKey authentication service and the HarvardKey Self-Service application. Simply put, HarvardKey acts as a gateway for Harvard affiliates to verify their identity and gain entry to the digital services they need.
Main Benefits of HarvardKey
HarvardKey offers several key advantages that make it essential for users within the Harvard community:
- Centralized login system that reduces the need for multiple credentials.
- Secure authentication with options like two-step verification.
- Access to a variety of integrated services, including third-party platforms like Zoom.
- Personal information protection with clear privacy policies and security measures.
- Support for self-service requests such as password changes and account management.
- Emergency communication capabilities to reach all users quickly.
- Technical support and troubleshooting facilitated through log file analysis.
Personal Information and Privacy
HarvardKey collects and uses personal information to confirm user identities and authorize access. This includes login IDs, passwords, whether two-step verification is enabled, and account claim status. Beyond that, it may also access users’ names, dates of birth, last four digits of social security numbers, email addresses, mobile phone numbers, ID card images, and directory privacy preferences. Harvard uses this data responsibly to ensure secure access and to avoid issuing multiple credentials to the same individual.
How Harvard Uses Your Data
Data collected through HarvardKey isn’t just stored away. It’s actively used to maintain security and improve user experience. For instance, Harvard may review IP addresses and browser information to diagnose technical issues or provide support. Email communications with staff are retained to process inquiries and enhance services. In some cases, personal information is shared with integrated systems and third-party providers to enable access to additional resources. However, Harvard is clear that it’s not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites or services.
Security and Legal Considerations
Security is a top priority for HarvardKey, with measures in place to protect against loss, misuse, and unauthorized changes to personal information. Still, no system can guarantee complete security in data transmission or storage. Harvard may also disclose personal information when required by law, to investigate policy violations, or to protect the safety and rights of users and the university community. This ensures that HarvardKey remains a trusted and compliant authentication platform.
HarvardKey’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 4: Quality Education – by facilitating secure access to educational resources.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – through the implementation of advanced authentication technology.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – by ensuring secure and transparent user authentication.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – enabling integration with third-party services and collaboration tools.
Additional Information and Support
If questions or concerns arise about HarvardKey’s privacy practices, users can reach out directly to ithelp@harvard.edu. For those outside the United States, there are additional privacy disclosures available to address international data protection standards. Harvard also keeps this Privacy Statement up to date, with the latest revision posted on August 3, 2022. So, users can always check back for the most current information on how their data is handled within the HarvardKey system.
