ICO calls for enhanced privacy measures in period and fertility apps

ICO urges privacy measures in period and fertility apps, emphasizing transparency, valid consent, legal compliance, and data accountability for user trust
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The UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is emphasizing the need for privacy protection among app developers, particularly period and fertility apps. In a recent review, the ICO scrutinized how these apps handle personal data to ensure user well-being. The examination involved contacting app providers to investigate privacy practices and gathering user feedback about their experiences. While the review found no significant compliance issues or evidence of harm, the ICO aims to reinforce the importance of safeguarding users’ personal information, particularly when dealing with sensitive data.

The ICO urges the app developers to:

  • Be transparent on how they use people’s data.
  • Obtain valid consent from users when processing their data.
  • Establish laws that ensure the legitimacy of data processing, such as consent, contract, or legitimate interests.
  • Be accountable for the personal data they hold.

Why does it matter?

Enhancing privacy protection in period and fertility apps would protect women from being targeted by anti-abortion groups. The ICO revealed that one-third of women use apps for period or fertility tracking. Concerns included data transparency (59%) and information security (57%). More than half noticed an increase in fertility-related ads, with 17% finding them distressing. Additionally, in 2022, the Organization for the Review of Care and Health Apps found that period and fertility apps share data with third parties.