pseudonymize pseudonymize
Replace personal details with a code so that data are protected.
Example of pseudonymize in a sentence
To pseudonymize data means that all direct identifiers such as name, birthdate, or address have been replaced with a code.
More Info
Researchers pseudonymize data to mask the identify of a specific participant. This also protects participants’ personal information from anyone who does not have a research-related reason to know.
When data are pseudonymized, identifiable information is replaced with a code to protect their identity. For example, a person’s name might be changed to a code like 14252.
In some cases, researchers keep the code linking back to the participant for returning results or seeking additional information, but they do not share that code.
Other info to think about when joining a study
You may see the word “pseudonymize” used in the consent form to describe how data collected in the study will be protected. Researchers are required to make sure that no personally identifiable information is ever released outside of the study to people who should not have access. If you have any questions about how your data will be protected, please feel free to ask the study team.
