Reporting A Concern » Compliance Services

Three young cartoon children in a room with a huge phone receiver, One blonde cartoon character is speaking into a yellow bullhorn to call and report.

Where to Report a Concern

Boston University recognizes its obligation to employees and constituents to maintain the highest ethical standards. If you have reason to believe that violations of Boston University policy or improper conduct has occurred, you should report your concerns through any of the following mechanisms.

BU Ethics and Compliance Hotline

The University has established an anonymous reporting hotline, independently administered by a third-party provider NAVEX EthicsPoint, to allow for anonymous and confidential reporting of activities that may involve improper conduct or violations of Boston University policies. All reports will be investigated promptly and discreetly by the University, receiving careful consideration with the objective of addressing any improper conduct or violation of University policy. This hotline is not a substitute for, nor does it supersede, any existing reporting methods or protocols for handling concerns and complaints. If you would like to report your concern to Boston University directly and are uncertain how to begin, contact Compliance Services (comply@bu.edu; 617-358-8090) for assistance.

Reporting to a Supervisor

You are encouraged to discuss any concerns directly with your supervisor, unit or department head, dean or senior leader responsible for your area.

Reporting Concerns Confidentially

If you would like to discuss your concerns confidentially, contact the Office of the Ombuds or submit an anonymous complaint through the BU Ethics and Compliance Hotline.

Reporting to the Responsible Office

Consider contacting the individuals responsible for specific areas of compliance, which are identified in the Compliance Matrix.

Office/Source – For Specific Issue(s)

Equal Opportunity Office – Harassment, discrimination, or sexual misconduct
Email: eoo@bu.edu; EOO’s Incident report Form
Global Programs – Academic programs, research or travel abroad
Email: global@bu.edu
Human Resources – Employment issues
Internal Audit – Financial, fraud, compliance or ethical issues
Office of the General Counsel – Legal or ethical issues
Office of the Provost – Academic affairs, faculty issues, or student issues
Office of Research Compliance – Research activities, including scientific misconduct, research safety, animal welfare, or other safety or research compliance matters
Resources to report concerns are detailed on the Research Support website.
Office of the Treasurer – Financial issues
Director Health Privacy and Compliance – Privacy of Health Information
Compliance Services – Any compliance or ethics issues or concerns

Spam or Phishing Email Reports

Spam, phishing emails or other information technology incidents that should be addressed by IS&T directly. Please report those incidents to IS&T by sending an email to abuse@bu.edu.

Reporting Crimes

Criminal activity should be reported to the Boston University Police Department (BUPD).

DIAL 617-353-2121 or 911 for immediate police response
Send an anonymous text to Police 24/7. Text BU, along with your message, to 847411 (TIP411). You will receive a confirmation message once your message has been received.
Additional BUPD Contacts: The BUPD website features a webpage with contact information for specific departments or concerns.

Questions on where to report
If you are uncertain whether to report or how to report a concern, contact Compliance Services at comply@bu.edu ; Phone: 617-358-8090.