Statistical disclosure control (SDC) is the application of methods to reduce the risk of personal identifiable information about data subjects.

Methods for SDC usually restrict or reduce the detail of the data released. 

A statistical disclosure assessment, which is described in this protocol, determines whether SDC should be applied and this is a process which is necessary for documenting evidence that a standardised process of risk assessment has taken place in compliance with data protection law.

This SDC protocol sets out guidance and practices for PHS staff to follow on 'statistical disclosure control'.

The protocol describes considerations of risk that should be applied when data is being released, including into the public domain.

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Older versions of this publication

Versions of this publication released before 16 March 2020 may be found on the Data and Intelligence, Health Protection Scotland or Improving Health websites.

Last updated: 06 June 2024
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