An Integrated System for Handling Restricted Use Data

The volume of restricted use data files distributed by data archives and data producers has increased dramatically in the last 10 years. As data files become more complicated with the addition of georeferencing, biomarkers, and linked administrative records, and other information, disclosure risk has increased dramatically. The most popular solution for distributing highly confidential data is to issue legal restricted use contracts to users. The handling of confidential data and the distribution of restricted use contracts, however, have not kept pace with other developments in data distribution. In this paper, we will explore several linked initiatives at ICPSR designed to streamline the handling, processing, and distribution of restricted use data. This paper will report on our progress in redesigning the entire system of handling, processing, and distributing confidential data. Our internal data processing steps will include segregating and streamlining data handling for confidential data through a CITRIX system. We are also creating an automated contracting system to handle the distribution of all of our restricted use files through a secured download system.