National Personnel Records Center

Privacy and Security of Veterans Records

The National Archives values the privacy of our veterans very highly and we actively protect their files stored here from disclosure to unauthorized individuals.

This is why we require veterans' authorization for third party disclosures, why we work with the Department of Defense to identify authorized users, and why we require the signature of those who purport to be the veteran or next of kin on requests for information, including DD 214s.

DD 214s are not available online. They are sent to the requester through the mail and like all other similar requests do require a written signature before the request is processed. Additionally, although our web site (eVetRecs) is set up to accept orders for DD 214s, it uses a secure, encrypted channel with the customer.

The agency which recently inadvertently compromised veterans' data was the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA has set up a manned call center that veterans may call to get information about this situation and learn more about consumer identity protections. That toll-free number is 1-800-FED INFO (333-4636) and will operate from 8 am to 9 pm (EDT), Monday-Saturday as long as it is needed.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is an independent federal agency and is not part of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

We take both the Privacy Act and the Freedom of Information Act very seriously. Learn more about our policies on access to Military Records by the General Public.

 
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