October 2-6, 2023, Nairobi, Kenya
Data Anonymization Workshop: The dissemination of survey microdata is a unique challenge that requires a careful balance between the risk of disclosure and the utility of the data. To address this, the Somali Integrated Statistics and Economic Planning Capacity Building project hosted a comprehensive Microdata anonymization training and workshop for SNBS. The main objective of this microdata anonymization training and workshop was to equip SNBS staff with knowledge and skills on data confidentiality to enable them to transfer and store data in line with prevailing standards and using best practices as well as in line with the Somalia Statistics Law Lr21 2020.
The first part of the workshop was about the concept of data anonymization and its significance in today’s digital world. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the various techniques and methods available for anonymizing sensitive data, such as generalization, aggregation, randomization, and suppression. By exploring examples and case studies, attendees learned how these techniques can be applied to different types of variables.
Moving beyond theory, the workshop focused on the practical implementation of data anonymization techniques. Participants how to apply different anonymization techniques, such as top-down recoding, microaggregation, and variable suppression, using the sdcMicro package. Hands-on exercises reinforced the concepts learned; attendees had the opportunity to anonymize Somali Integrated Household Budget Survey datasets under the guidance of an expert from the World Bank Data Group.
To ensure the effectiveness of data anonymization techniques, it is crucial to evaluate their outcomes. The workshop explored methods for assessing the level of anonymity achieved after anonymizing data, including metrics such as k-anonymity, and l-diversity. Participants learned insights into evaluating the risk of re-identification and understanding the trade-offs between data utility and risks.
Participants had the opportunity to engage in a hands-on session using the Somali Integrated Household Budget Survey and understood a comprehensive understanding of statistical disclosure control techniques and practical skills in anonymizing microdata to protect respondent privacy while enabling researchers to utilize microdata effectively.
