System and method for generating privacy-enhanced aggregate statistics

A system and method for generating privacy-enhanced aggregate statistics within a social network system is provided. Data is collected and processed to gather information to generate the aggregate statistics. A threshold is assigned. The threshold includes a criterion used in making a determination on what aggregate statistic will be generated. In some embodiments, the threshold is a numerical value. In some embodiments, the numerical value, or quantitative data is then translated into qualitative descriptors. In some embodiments, noise is then added to randomize the assigned threshold. In other embodiments, noise is added to the collected data. In some embodiments, checks to guard against attacks from adversarial users are performed. Examples of indications of adversarial behavior include, but are not limited to, manipulation of profiles, continuous manipulation of affinity groups, and manipulation of preferences for one or more users. The threshold is applied and aggregate statistics are generated.