Although it is possible to prevent the collection of data, it is also important to think about the data that you might need for your research at first, but that become redundant later on. By planning for timely de-identification and destruction of your data, you can better protect your participants. You can use the examples below can help you prepare for the timely destruction of data.
During your research, you may unexpectedly need to record personal information about a participant. For example, a participant may report a change in their contact details or provide additional personal comments. Whenever possible, record this information directly in a digital format on the secure storage solution you use for your research documentation. If this is not possible, temporarily record the information on paper and digitize it as soon as possible. Do not retain personal information longer than necessary, especially on paper. Once the information has been digitized, immediately destroy the original paper notes using UG confidential paper containers or a shredder.
While collecting data, it is often necessary to use storage solutions that are no longer necessary after you have collected the data and are going to analyse the data. Transfer your data from these devices and platforms to a secure storage location as soon as possible. First make sure that you check the integrity of the data. As soon as this is confirmed, remove the data from the device or platform.
Before you do your final clean-up, it is important to check whether all necessary data are included in your data package, publication package or archive according to your faculty research data policy.
After you have confirmed that your data is archived correctly, you can critically review the data you have stored during your research: