Redaction-log de-identification is the removal of personal data from the record that lists each cut and its basis under FRCP 26(b)(5). anonym.plus runs locally and keeps the reason given for every entry.
When this applies
This record lists each cut and why you made it. The description fields can themselves name people, so the file needs cleaning before it is shared.
How anonym.plus handles it
- Load the file into anonym.plus on your device.
- It scans the description and basis columns.
- The tool flags names and contacts in each entry.
- Confirm the flags; keep the stated basis for each cut.
- Replace or mask the confirmed PII.
- Save the clean record on your device.
What you need to provide
- The file (XLSX, CSV, DOCX, or PDF).
- An operator; Mask for partial names in entries.
- Optional steady labels so one person maps to one alias.
PII entity types detected
| Category | anonym.plus entity type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Names | PERSON | redacted-party name → [NAME] |
| Document IDs | PERSON | Bates ABC-0099 → [DOC_ID] |
| Dates | DATE_TIME | entry date → [DATE] |
| Contact | EMAIL_ADDRESS | entry email → [EMAIL] |
| Identifiers | US_SSN | SSN in basis → [SSN] |
| Names | PERSON | reviewer name → [REVIEWER] |
Compliance achieved
- Supports a defensible record under FRCP 26(b)(5).
- Keeps the basis for each cut so the file stays useful.
- Offline work keeps the record inside your firm.
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Limitations & cautions
Each entry must still justify its cut. Mask names in the rows, but keep the stated basis, or the file loses its purpose. Confirm that masking does not make two different cuts look identical.
Frequently asked questions
Why de-identify the log itself?
Its description fields can name the very people you redacted. Cleaning the record keeps that PII from leaking when it is shared under FRCP 26(b)(5).
Will it still justify each cut?
Yes. The stated basis for each entry stays. Only PII inside the rows is masked or replaced.
Does it read spreadsheet versions?
Yes. XLSX and CSV files are supported, plus DOCX and PDF versions.