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Handling Sensitive Data

This guide covers key topics like protecting privacy, meeting legal requirements, and securely storing and sharing data. It is intended for researchers, students, and faculty who work with sensitive data and want to ensure responsible and ethical handling

Publishing Sensitive Data

Publishing Procedures

Before sharing or publishing any sensitive data, it’s important to make sure the information is properly protected and that all required approvals are in place. Publishing without the right safeguards can lead to privacy breaches, legal issues, or reputational harm.

  • Double-check the data. Make sure anything that could identify a person or reveal sensitive information is removed or de-identified before publishing.

  • Follow the rules. Check that you have the right approvals, like IRB clearance or data use agreements, and that you’re following any laws or policies that apply.

  • Use approved platforms. Only share through trusted, secure repositories or journals supported by UNT Health.

  • Limit access if needed. Not all sensitive data should be public. Sometimes it’s best to restrict access to certain users.

  • Keep a record. Make note of what data you shared, how you prepared it, and where you posted it. This helps protect both you and your research.