Data Protection

In the analytical & interpretation phase, data protection is of critical importance, as processes of selection, coding, frame extraction, and contextualization of images may increase the risk of identification or undue exposure of the individuals represented. Even when data have been previously collected and stored securely, analytical practices can generate new combinations of information or highlight sensitive details that were not initially anticipated. 

Beyond legal compliance, this phase also raises important ethical considerations, including adherence to principles such as FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data management, which must be balanced with privacy and confidentiality requirements. Ensuring that data are reusable and accessible should not compromise the protection of individuals, especially when dealing with visual or potentially identifiable content.  

Integrating data protection into this phase requires continuous assessment of identification risks, the adoption of appropriate data minimization and anonymization measures, and restricted access to visual materials during the analytical process. At the same time, ethical data stewardship calls for responsible documentation, transparency of methods, and controlled data sharing practices. This approach ensures that interpretation and the production of research outputs are conducted in accordance with principles of proportionality, security, and confidentiality, thereby safeguarding the rights and well-being of the individuals involved.