FPF Launches New Privacy-Enhancing Technologies Repository

For some time now, stakeholders at the intersection of data, privacy, and new technologies have increasingly recognized the potential of a range of technical and computational approaches and techniques to mitigate privacy risks. This set of tools and methods are otherwise known as privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) and are understood as a group of techniques that can help enhance and preserve data privacy while maintaining its utility. As novel technological challenges continue to evolve, the conversation around PETs as possible enablers of secure, trusted, and fair data sharing and use has similarly intensified.

Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding of the potential and limitations of these technologies, FPF has actively contributed to shaping policymaking around PETs through discussion papers, reports, and stakeholder engagement. In 2023, FPF began facilitating the convenings of the Global PETs Network, an informal forum for global Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) and regulators interested in the development and policy implications of the adoption and implementation of PETs. In July 2024, FPF also launched the Research Coordination Network for Privacy-Preserving Data Sharing and Analytics, bringing together a group of cross-sector and multidisciplinary experts dedicated to exploring the potential of PETs in the context of AI and emerging technologies, and steward their adoption and scalability. 

Through these initiatives and other efforts, FPF has identified a growing demand among stakeholders to promote and enhance a better understanding and awareness of the potential and limitations of PETs. Many regulators and organizations have made significant contributions to advancing PETs development and deployment through research, guidance, and testing, many of which have been publicly available for social use and benefit. Building on these efforts and its own initiatives, FPF recently launched the PETs Repository, a webpage that consolidates available resources and developments around the development and deployment of PETs. 

FPF’s PETs Repository is a centralized, trusted, and up-to-date resource where individuals and organizations interested in these technologies can find practical and useful information in the field. The Repository is currently organized into three segments: 

1. Regulatory Activity: Including official guidance, statements, blogs, tools, and reports on PETs from DPAs and regulators around the world.
2. External Reports: Relevant and contemporary publications from global organizations offering insights into PETs.
3. Sandboxes: Links to official resources detailing use cases, applications, and results from testing environments such as sandboxes and other initiatives led by governments and organizations.

While FPF acknowledges the extensive field of academic research around PETs, the Repository intends to primarily consolidate developments and official resources reflecting the existing regulatory thinking and policymaking around these technologies. Through the Repository, FPF contributes to facilitating a better understanding of PETs and increasing the visibility of global initiatives in the field from governments and organizations to a broader audience.