This task removes personal data from a recorded referral. UK GDPR and the DPA 2018 protect both the referee and the subject, and DBS guidance shapes vetting. anonym.plus marks referee and subject identifiers on your device, so the assessment stays while contacts are shielded.
When this applies
Each source shares a name, a telephone line, and candid views on the person. You trim those identifiers before the write-up enters a recruitment file.
How anonym.plus handles it
- Open the write-up in anonym.plus on your device.
- Built-in OCR reads a scanned testimonial letter.
- The app marks source and subject identifiers.
- Confirm each marking and keep the substance of feedback.
- Swap or black out the confirmed contacts.
- Save the cleaned copy locally.
What you need to provide
- The referral write-up (PDF, DOCX, or scan).
- An operator (Replace keeps the feedback readable).
- Optional alias map for repeat referees.
PII entity types detected
| Category | anonym.plus entity type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Names | PERSON | referee Donovan → [REFEREE] |
| Names | PERSON | subject named → [CANDIDATE] |
| Contact | PHONE_NUMBER | +44 117 496 9081 → [PHONE] |
| Contact | EMAIL_ADDRESS | referee@example.co.uk → [EMAIL] |
| Org | ORGANIZATION | former employer → [EMPLOYER] |
| Location | LOCATION | office address → [ADDRESS] |
Compliance achieved
- Protects referee and subject under UK GDPR & DPA 2018 and DBS guidance.
- Shields source contacts while keeping the assessment intact.
- Offline work keeps the write-up off any server.
Anonymise reference checks offline — see plans & start free →
Limitations & cautions
A candid account can identify a source by role even without a name. The app marks named items; review the feedback for unique clues before it is shared, and weigh any subject-access request with the ICO guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Does UK GDPR cover an informal referral?
Yes. A written testimonial about a named person is personal data under UK GDPR. anonym.plus marks source and subject identifiers either way.
Can I keep the assessment readable?
Yes. Replace swaps each contact for a label, so the feedback still flows and names no real person.
Is the write-up uploaded?
No. The app is fully offline, so referee data stays on your device.