Confidentiality-designation redaction is the removal of personal data from documents marked under an FRCP 26(c) protective order. Rule 26(c)(1)(G) is the ground for a trade-secret or confidential-commercial tier. anonym.plus leaves that legend in place while identifiers go.
When this applies
A protective order sets tiers such as Confidential and Attorneys' Eyes Only. It governs who may read the file between the parties. It does not seal a filing. The docket applies its own access test, so a filed copy needs its own cut.
How anonym.plus handles it
- Load the marked files into anonym.plus on your device.
- It reserves the level-stamp zone.
- The tool flags names, contacts, and IDs in the body.
- Confirm the flags away from the marked zone.
- Redact or mask each confirmed item.
- Save the clean files on your device.
What you need to provide
- The marked files (PDF, DOCX, or scan).
- A reserved zone for the designation stamp.
- An operator; Redact for AEO material.
PII entity types detected
| Category | anonym.plus entity type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Names | PERSON | individual name → [NAME] |
| Account | US_BANK_NUMBER | account no. → [ACCOUNT] |
| Identifiers | US_SSN | SSN → [SSN] |
| Contact | EMAIL_ADDRESS | email → [EMAIL] |
| Dates | DATE_TIME | date → [DATE] |
| Document IDs | PERSON | CONFIDENTIAL stamp → [LEVEL] |
Compliance achieved
- The legend from an FRCP 26(c)(1)(G) order stays on the page.
- A protective order is not a sealing order, so a filed copy needs its own cut.
- FRCP 26(c)(1) wants a good-faith conference certificate before you move.
- AEO material never leaves the device, so no vendor breaks the tier.
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Limitations & cautions
A protective-order level and PII redaction are different controls. Clearing names does not lower the marking, and a label does not remove PII. Apply both, and confirm the marking survives the redaction pass on each file.
Frequently asked questions
Does a protective order let me file the document as it is?
No. A Rule 26(c) order controls disclosure between the parties. Filing puts the document on a public docket, where the court applies its own sealing standard. Cut first, then move to seal separately.
What has to happen before I ask for the order?
Rule 26(c)(1) requires a certification that you conferred, or tried in good faith to confer, with the other parties. The motion goes to the court where the action is pending.
Can it handle AEO material?
Yes. Work is local, so the most sensitive level never reaches an outside server.