De-identifying an outcome dataset is the removal of data that names a subject from a score export. UK GDPR Art. 89 covers scientific research safeguards. anonym.plus runs on your device, so the measures stay while subjects are hidden.
When this applies
A research team pools symptom scores across sites. The export holds subject names, IDs, and dates, which must be stripped before analysis.
How anonym.plus handles it
- Open the export in anonym.plus on your device.
- Local OCR reads scanned score sheets too.
- It flags subject names, IDs, and dates.
- Review each flag and keep the score columns.
- Replace each value with a label, or remove it.
- Save the clean dataset. The source stays local.
What you need to provide
- The export (CSV-in-PDF, DOCX, TXT, or scan).
- An operator: Replace, Redact, or Mask.
- Optional: a key map for re-linking.
Patient data entity types detected
| Category | anonym.plus entity type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Subject | PERSON | Yusuf Demir → [SUBJECT_1] |
| Subject code | ID | SUBJ-0142 → [CODE] |
| Score date | DATE_TIME | Scored 22/05/2026 → [DATE] |
| Site | ORGANIZATION | Site Manchester → [SITE] |
| EMAIL_ADDRESS | y.demir@uni.ac.uk → [EMAIL] | |
| NHS number | NHS_NUMBER | NHS 904 117 1234 → [NHS_NO] |
Compliance achieved
- Removes identifiers under UK GDPR Art. 89 research safeguards.
- Once anonymised, the data falls outside UK GDPR under Recital 26.
- Runs offline, so no cross-border transfer occurs.
- Exports are sealed with AES-256-GCM.
Anonymise outcome measure datasets offline — see plans & start free →
Limitations & cautions
A small cell of rare scores can re-identify a subject. The tool removes direct identifiers. You still apply statistical care so an unusual row does not single out one person.
Frequently asked questions
What safeguards does UK GDPR Art. 89 expect?
It calls for measures like data minimisation and pseudonymisation for research use. Stripping direct identifiers is a core step toward meeting that standard alongside the ICO Anonymisation Code.
Can I keep a subject code?
Yes, if it is a random label, not a real ID. Keep the link table apart so the export alone cannot be reversed.
Does data cross a border?
No. The app runs locally, so no transfer to a third country occurs.