Analytical tool for web statistics

Statistics Norway uses the analytical tool to collect and evaluate information on how visitors use the website, with the aim of improving the functionality of the website. Visits to ssb.no are registered with anonymous information, which does not contain any identifiable personal data.

Statistics Norway is the data controller for ssb.no, and as such determines what data Google Analytics has access to in order to analyse website usage. Google Analytics only deals with general web statistics, including browser type, date/time, language and which website the user came from.

IP masking to secure anonymous information

In line with normal practice, a user’s IP address is registered when visiting ssb.no. However, Statistics Norway has chosen to mask parts of this information, so that no identifiable personal data is registered. IP masking is a security measure used to control how Google Analytics uses and stores website visitors’ IP addresses. By default, Google Analytics uses the entire IP address of website visitors in the general geographic reporting. On ssb.no, IP masking is enabled, which means that Google Analytics removes the last eight-bit byte of visitors’ IP addresses before they are analysed and stored.

Using cookies to store data

During website visits, cookies (information capsules) are stored as text files on your computer. The information collected by the cookie on your usage (including an anonymised version of your IP address) is sent to Google and stored on its servers. Google then uses this information to monitor website usage, draw up website activity reports for the website owner and provide other services related to the website activity and usage.

Google can also transfer this information to third parties where there is a legal obligation to do so, or if such third parties process the information on behalf of Google. Google will not combine your IP address with any other data it may have in its possession.

Preventing storage of your visitor data

Google Analytics’ guidelines on privacy protection entitle you to deny Google Analytics permission to store your visitor data. If you do not want Google Analytics to store your data, you can install “ Google Analytics Opt-out ”, which is an add-on function for your browser that will prevent storage of such data.

You can also prevent the use of cookies on your computer by adjusting the necessary browser settings. If you choose to do this, you should be aware that you may not be able to use all of the website’s functionality.

By using the website you agree to Google processing data on you in the way and for the purpose as described above.