Which type of research information does the Certificate of Confidentiality protect?

The Certificate of Confidentiality is designed to protect identifiable information in research, particularly from compelled disclosure. This means that if a researcher has a Certificate of Confidentiality, they cannot be forced to disclose information that could identify participants in their study during legal proceedings or investigations. This protection is crucial for maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of research subjects, especially in sensitive studies where the potential for harm, stigma, or other negative consequences might arise from revealed identities.

In contrast, general information about research activities and data from anonymous surveys are not protected by the same standards as identifiable information. Findings that can be published without consent also do not relate to the protection afforded by the Certificate, as this pertains to the sharing of identifiable data rather than published results. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the specific legal protections afforded to the identity of individuals involved in research, which is a fundamental aspect of ethical research practices.