A Checklist for Ensuring Statistical Data Privacy in National Statistics Centers

Executive Summary

National Statistics Centers have to share micro-data with bona-fide researchers and other external stakeholders while ensuring compliance with the UN Principles of Official Statistics. However, this micro-data includes personally identifiable information, which, if exposed, can lead to non-compliance with the UN Principles of Official Statistics Section 6 and any other regional data privacy laws.

This checklist offers a structured approach to managing data privacy in national statistics centers, helping them securely anonymize sensitive information before release. By following the steps outlined, organizations can strengthen their data privacy practices and enable secure data sharing to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

By working through each section of the checklist, national statistics centers can enhance their data privacy efforts by focusing on:

• Mapping out and classifying personal data, identifying risks, and determining appropriate anonymization methods.
• Understanding legal and ethical frameworks for anonymizing PII in microdata and aligning with global statistical standards.
• Identifying and applying essential de-identification techniques, including automated redaction, generalization, and suppression, to safeguard sensitive data.
• Implementing access controls, maintaining audit logs, and conducting regular privacy testing to ensure secure data handling.
• Continuously improving practices through ongoing staff training, engagement with international best practices, and adapting to emerging privacy threats.