What should be done according to best practices for handling data?

Destroying all identifiers connected to the data is aligned with best practices for handling data, particularly in the context of protecting privacy and confidentiality. When working with sensitive data, such as that obtained from research involving prisoners, it is crucial to ensure that individuals cannot be easily identified from the data. Removing or destroying identifiers mitigates the risk of unauthorized access and potential breaches of confidentiality, thus safeguarding the rights of participants.

Best practices emphasize the importance of data anonymization to maintain participant privacy and uphold ethical standards in research. Once identifiers are removed, the data can often still be analyzed while ensuring that the individuals involved cannot be traced back through the data set. This approach fosters trust in the research process and ensures compliance with ethical guidelines and regulations governing research with vulnerable populations.