Enhancing Security in Geographic Information Systems: Anonymization and Differential Privacy Techniques for Protecting Sensitive Geospatial Data

Abstract

As Geographic Information Systems (GIS) increasingly facilitate the analysis and sharing of geospatial data, the protection of sensitive information becomes paramount. This research explores the implementation of anonymization and differential privacy techniques to enhance security in GIS. Anonymization methods effectively remove or obscure personally identifiable information from geospatial datasets, while differential privacy introduces a mathematical framework that allows for the sharing of aggregate data without compromising individual privacy. This study evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of these techniques, demonstrating their effectiveness in maintaining the utility of geospatial data while safeguarding sensitive information. Through case studies and comparative analysis, we provide insights into best practices for integrating these privacy-preserving strategies into GIS applications, ensuring compliance with legal regulations and fostering public trust in geospatial technologies.