The correct answer is D. Obtaining permission from individuals before collecting their data.
Informed consent is a process that involves obtaining permission from individuals before collecting their data. This process involves providing individuals with information about the data that will be collected, how it will be used, and who will have access to it. Individuals must then provide their consent before their data can be collected.
Option A is incorrect because removing outliers from a dataset does not involve obtaining permission from individuals. Option B is incorrect because creating data backups does not involve obtaining permission from individuals. Option C is incorrect because sharing data publicly does not involve obtaining permission from individuals.
Informed consent is an important part of data ethics because it helps to protect the privacy of individuals. By obtaining permission from individuals before collecting their data, researchers can ensure that individuals are aware of how their data will be used and that they have the opportunity to decline to participate in the research.