Final answer:
Non-identifiable data can become PII when combined with other data that together uniquely identify an individual. This process is known as data re-identification. Adequate data protection practices are crucial to prevent this and protect individual privacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Non-identifiable data can become Personally Identifiable Information (PII) when it is combined with other information that, when put together, can identify a specific individual. This process is known as data re-identification or de-anonymization, where seemingly anonymous data is cross-referenced with other datasets to uncover identities. For instance, separate datasets including a person's zip code, birthdate, and gender may not reveal an individual's identity. However, when these pieces of data are combined, they can often uniquely identify a person, especially in a small population.
It's essential for businesses, organizations, and governments to implement rigorous data protection practices to ensure that privacy is maintained and that non-identifiable data cannot be used in combination with other datasets to create PII. This is particularly important with the burgeoning quantities of data that are being collected, stored, and analyzed in the digital age.