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Data anonymization

Data anonymization is the use of one or more techniques designed to make it impossible to identify a particular individual from stored data related to them. That kind of data bring significant benefits to businesses collecting data since anonymous data is not personal data for the purposes of GDPR.

Anonymous data doesn’t require any additional safeguards to ensure its security. Among other things, this means that, you don’t need to get consent to process it and it can be exported internationally.

In terms of GDPR we can anonymize data such as:

  • login details
  • device IDs
  • IP addresses
  • cookies
  • device type
  • language preference
  • time zones

Example methods of data anonymization:

  • Noise Addition – example: height: 180 cm → height: 320 cm
  • Aggregation – example: Age: 30 → Age: 20-35
  • Substitution – example: : 10120 → ZIP: postcode

To get more details on data anonymization, read the Piwik PRO blog:

  • Digital marketing in the energy sector: Key challenges and fixes

    Summary The European energy and utilities sector is changing quickly. Customers expect smooth digital experiences, personalized communication, and easy access to their data. At the same time, regulators continue to tighten privacy and security standards across the EU. For marketing teams, this creates a familiar dilemma – how to deliver relevant, data-driven experiences while staying…

  • From Customer Data Platform to Data Activation: Why we’re evolving our approach

    Our Customer Data Platform module is now called Data Activation, reflecting a fundamental shift from data collection to outcome-driven action. We’re changing more than just a name – we’re refocusing on what truly matters: turning behavioral insights into immediate business results.

Other definitions

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