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
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
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.
If you suspect that a minor participating in any BU-sponsored or affiliated program/activity has been abused or neglected, or you have any concerns regarding the health or safety of a minor participant, you must take the steps outlined on the BU Protection of Minors website, which includes the first step of immediately contacting law enforcement. Please see the BU Protection of Minors website for steps on how to report concerns involving minors.
