What action should be taken to modify a security profile to enable unmasking SS#s?

To modify a security profile that allows for the unmasking of Social Security Numbers (SSN), it is necessary to edit permissions within the access controls of the system. Access controls are designed to manage who has permission to view, modify, and interact with sensitive data, such as SSNs.

By adjusting the permissions, an administrator can grant specific users the authority to access and view SSNs without them being masked. This is particularly crucial in a payroll context where access to complete SSNs might be required for certain tasks, like tax reporting or validations.

Changing user roles could affect a broader range of access and may not specifically target the ability to unmask SSNs. Adjusting security audit levels is focused more on tracking access and changes made within the system, rather than directly modifying who can view sensitive data. Requesting an administrative override is a reactive approach to access issues, rather than a proactive modification of security settings, and may not always be necessary if proper permissions can be set in advance.

Therefore, modifying permissions in the access controls is the most direct and appropriate action to enable the unmasking of SSNs while ensuring that sensitive data is handled with care and compliance to security protocols.