A student spending ID BUCs by punching in a student identification number rather than scanning an ETSU card might seem innocent enough, but a similar event recently has led ID Services to clamp down on the practice.
On campus, an ETSU student’s ID is a multipurpose card used at the Basler Center for Physical Activity, Sherrod Library, and at various food venues. ID Services is taking extra precautions to make sure this card, like any other debit or credit card, doesn’t result in user fraud.
“We want to make sure students’ accounts, whether ID BUCs or meal plan, are secure,” said Charles Forrester, the ID systems director. “We’re just trying to tighten the ropes up a bit.”
After an incident where one student’s boyfriend used the ID number to purchase food, ID Services realized there was a potential problem.
Some cashiers were allowing students to use their ID numbers rather than presenting the card. Though ID Services already required students to scan their student IDs, they are reaffirming that all cards must be present when making purchases with ID BUCs.
“It’s easy for a student to say, ‘Oh, I left my ID at home,’ and then give them the number,” Forrester said.
Forrester said students who have temporarily left their cards can go by the University Food Service Office (on the right in front of the cafeteria) and fill out a slip. Otherwise, students can stop by ID Services or the Public Safety Office to replace the lost or stolen card.
Some students see this precaution as an inconvenience rather than a security feature.
“I’ve never had anyone steal my card,” said Megan Gilchrist, a junior at ETSU. “The ID thing in general, I don’t really like it because you have to keep up with it all the time.”
According to ID Services, almost any transaction on campus can be made with the ID card if students have ID BUCs, including food, books, vending, and laundry. This is why Forrester requests all cashiers use students’ current IDs. But there are still ways the card can be used without presenting the ID.
“At places like vending machines people can use stolen cards because you don’t have to prove identity,” Forrester said. “We try to point out in orientation that if they do lose their card to report to us immediately and we will deactivate it.”
Students are responsible for the first $50.00 from losses resulting from lost, stolen or misplaced cards if reported missing within 48 hours, according to ID Services.
Students should replace a lost or stolen card immediately. After the new card is activated, the old card will be invalid. A replacement fee of $10.00 plus tax will be charged.

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