How the 2020 Census Protects Your Privacy
By Office of Communication
Posted on February 06, 2020, February 06, 2020

In just a few weeks, you'll receive an invitation to respond to the 2020 Census. The 10 question survey asks basic questions about your household, and takes about 10 minutes to complete. This year, there are more options than ever to respond including online.

With the advances in technology come privacy concerns for some residents. But the Census Bureau has taken great steps to make sure your information is safe. Here are a few ways the government protects your data, while your response to the census contributes to the future of our community.

Differential Privacy Technology

The 2020 Census will be the first time a differential privacy system will be rolled out on such a large scale. The technique was developed by researchers at Microsoft and has become the industry standard for protecting information. It's a high-tech name for a very complex process. where controlled noise data is introduced into the formula, preserving and protecting the good responses.

Title 13 of the U.S. Code

U.S. law requires your information stay confidential. Your answers can't be shared with any other government agency or court. Census Bureau employees take a lifetime oath to protect your information. Anyone who violates the law faces serious punishment including up to five years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine.

The U.S. Supreme Court has also ruled census address lists must stay confidential.

Confidentiality Standards

Census data is collected for each household, not personally identifiable information. This household data is used to produce statistics and trends about our community. A government board verifies that any data coming from the Census Bureau meets strict confidentiality standards before it's released for statistical use. Accurate statistics ensure that Arlington gets the resources needed to serve the community.

72-Year Rule

In 1952, the National Archives and Census Bureau agreed census records can't be released for 72 years. The household data from the 1950 census will be released in 20222. 

The census will never ask for financial or personal information, including your social security number, bank account number, or credit card information. If you still have privacy concerns, feel free to skip the computer. As always, you're welcome to respond through the mail. You can also respond over the phone. Whatever method you choose, please respond. Because everyone counts in Arlington.

Computer privacy graphic

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