The Dark Side of Free Health Tracking Apps: How Your Data Could Be Sold for Profit
In today’s digital age, free health tracking apps have become increasingly popular, promising to improve various aspects of our lives. However, experts warn that there may be a hidden cost to using these apps – your personal health data.
Privacy advocates caution that health tracking apps, especially those that are free to download, could potentially use your sensitive health information for advertising or other commercial purposes. This data can include details about your sex life, pregnancy status, and menstrual cycle patterns.
According to Beth Barker-Paton, a privacy specialist, app companies can collect data on your location, habits, activities, and other sensitive information, and sell this information to third parties. While some companies may claim not to sell specific health data like step counts or exercise routines, they can still use this information to infer details about your lifestyle and preferences, which can then be used to target you with personalized ads.
One area of particular concern is the rise of period tracking apps, which have been found to share users’ personal data with third parties for targeted advertising. The sharing of such sensitive information has raised fears about data security and privacy, especially in light of recent developments such as the overturning of Roe v Wade in the US.
Experts advise users, especially women, to be cautious when using health tracking apps, as they may unwittingly be sharing highly personal and valuable data. It is essential to understand the privacy implications of using these apps and to consider removing personal data or using encrypted versions to protect sensitive information.
As the use of AI and data analytics continues to grow, there is a growing interest in using health data from apps for training computer programs. This data could potentially be used in ways that impact individuals’ privacy and could lead to unintended discrimination based on lifestyle or health data.
In conclusion, while free health tracking apps may offer convenience and insights into our health, users should be aware of the potential risks associated with sharing their personal data. It is crucial to read and understand an app’s terms and conditions, and to consider the implications of sharing sensitive health information before using these apps.