Glossary A–ZLetter A
Anonymisation
Anonymisation means altering data so that it can no longer be linked to a specific person, even with reasonable effort and additional knowledge.
The GDPR no longer applies to data that is truly anonymous. Recital 26 of the Regulation makes this clear.
In screen networks, anonymisation matters above all for measurement. A sensor on a screen might count people and store only the figure per quarter-hour, with no images. A queue management system can analyse waiting times per hour instead of keeping a list of names. In both cases a figure remains that is sufficient for planning without recording people.
The act of anonymising is itself still processing of personal data if a camera image or a name is the starting point. Moreover, not everything described as anonymous actually is: small groups, precise timestamps or rare characteristics can allow conclusions to be drawn. Operators should ask the provider for a written description of what is stored and what is not. Anonymisation must be distinguished from pseudonymisation.