Dear Faculty,

We are reaching out to provide an important reminder that Ohio is a one-party consent to record state. There are those who would use that fact to try and record conversations without consent and use that material for online content, often of an inflammatory nature.

Recently, an administrator on the Kent Campus experienced an incident in which an individual misrepresented their identity in order to request a meeting. During that interaction, the individual asked questions framed around student safety and campus climate. Unbeknownst to the administrator at the time, the conversation was recorded. Following the winter break, the administrator was subsequently approached with excerpts of that recording in an apparent attempt to prompt further recorded interaction. There were also concerns raised about possible unauthorized access to the administrator’s computer camera because they were able to show pictures of the administrator in their office.

We share this information not to speculate about intent, but to encourage awareness and caution. Ohio is a one-party consent state, meaning that conversations may legally be recorded without the knowledge of all participants. As a result, it is important to remain mindful that meetings—particularly with individuals whose identity or affiliation is unknown—could be recorded.

We encourage faculty to take reasonable precautions, including verifying meeting participants when possible, stating that you do not consent to being recorded, and being attentive to digital security practices. If you ever feel uncertain or uncomfortable about a meeting request or interaction, you are encouraged to pause the conversation and seek guidance. If you are approached by anyone openly recording you to try to get a reaction, you can reply with ’no comment’. Or, you could state that all media requests should go through university communications.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact the KSUFA Office if you have questions, concerns, or would like to discuss strategies for protecting yourself in professional interactions.

In Solidarity,

Coleen Taylor

Executive Director

ctaylor@ksufa.org

Kent State United Faculty Association (KSUFA)

136 N. Water Street, Suite 213

Kent, Ohio 44240

330-673-9118

office@ksufa.org