This dataset represents the anonymised data collected as part of the Viral Communication (Understand-ELSED) project, which focussed on the social and ethical dimensions of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. It includes the three measurements; Phase I (30 October 2020 and 14 December 2020), Phase II (2 March 2021 and 22 March 2021) and Phase III. The first phase built the foundation for the wider suite of data collection approaches and research methods used in the Viral Communication project by allowing respondents to opt-in to multiple research pathways. Overall sample frame (Phase I): N = 1480 Phase II sample frame: N = 482 Phase III sample frame: N = 426 Computed variables such as weights, groupings (experimental set-ups), and composi...