What Kind of Data Protection Do I Need?

There are several factors to consider when designing a data protection plan for storing and protecting research data. In all cases, researcher should develop a data protection plan that addresses these four priorities:

  • Protecting research subjects from harm that might result from unintended disclosure or inappropriate use of confidential data
  • Upholding the researcher’s assurance of confidentiality
  • Adhering to requirements specified in any restricted use agreements
  • Using optimal storage and use technologies that protect data securely without imposing unwarranted or excessive burdens on researchers