Balancing Data Sharing and Privacy to Enhance Integrity and Trust in Government Programs : National Academy of Public Administration , March , 2025
Balancing Data Sharing and Privacy to Enhance Integrity and Trust in Government Programs : National Academy of Public Administration , March , 2025
From the report: “Improper payments and fraud have been a long-standing, significant challenge in the federal government, undermining the integrity of federal programs and eroding public trust. In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and increased reliance on digital infrastructure, data plays a crucial role in detecting and preventing improper payments and fraud. The need for greater interagency collaboration and data-driven decision making has never been more critical. However, as this paper underscores, the evolving landscape of data governance introduces complex legal, operational, and ethical considerations that demand a well-thought-out nuanced approach.
The Program Integrity Alliance contracted with the National Academy of Public Administration (the Academy) to conduct a study to examine the inherent tensions between increased data sharing and protecting data privacy. The Academy has long been committed to strengthening governance and public administration through independent, nonpartisan expertise. Additionally, one of the Academy’s 12 Grand Challenges in Public Administration is Ensuring Data Security and Privacy Rights of Individuals. In developing thought leadership for this Grand Challenge, the Academy has conducted research, written reports, and convened events on data security and privacy.
This paper examines the benefits and privacy challenges associated with data sharing across government programs in the context of program integrity and fraud prevention. It presents key findings and recommendations to bridge the gap between enhanced data accessibility and robust privacy safeguards and reflects focused research, engagement with key stakeholders, and an analysis of best practices to identify actionable solutions to strengthen data sharing and protect data privacy.”
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