What is meant by Pseudonymization?
Pseudonymization is a process in which personal data is replaced by an identifier (pseudonym) to prevent the direct identification of a person. The personal reference is maintained and can be restored with the help of additional information. Pseudonymization serves data protection and data security by restricting access to personal data.
Typical software functions in the area of "pseudonymization":
- Pseudonym generation: Automatic creation of unique identifiers for individuals.
- Mapping tables: Management of the assignment between pseudonyms and original data.
- Encryption: Secure storage of mapping information.
- Access management: Control of access to pseudonymized data and mapping tables.
- Data export: Export of pseudonymized datasets for analysis or sharing.
- De-pseudonymization: Controlled restoration of personal reference when needed.
Examples of "pseudonymization":
- Patient data in clinical trials is replaced by numbers.
- Customer numbers instead of names in sales databases.
- Anonymous user IDs in online forums.
- Encrypted email addresses in mailing lists.
- Coded employee numbers in payroll systems.
- Pseudonymous IP addresses in web server logs.