---
type: concept
title: Matrix-ID Anonymization
tags: [privacy, security, matrix]
related: [matrix-id, matrix-datenschutz]
created: 2026-06-30
updated: 2026-06-30
sources: ["output/rz_uni_greifswald_de_dienste_allgemein_instant_messaging_chat_matrix_datenschutz.md"]
---

# Matrix-ID Anonymization

Matrix-ID Anonymization is a technique used by the [[universitatsrechenzentrum-urz]] to reconcile the technical permanence of the Matrix protocol with the GDPR "right to erasure."

Because the Matrix protocol prevents the deletion of a [[matrix-id]] to avoid duplicate assignments, the URZ generates IDs using random numbers rather than identifiable user data. Consequently, once a user's account is deleted, the remaining Matrix-ID cannot be linked back to a specific individual, effectively anonymizing the identifier.