Reproductive health apps must do more to protect user data, researchers say

A study by CUNY SPH researchers raises concerns about the privacy and security practices of popular reproductive health apps. The research, conducted by alumna Nina Zadushlivy, Assistant Professor Karmen Williams, and Arizona State University Assistant Professor Rizwana Biviji, evaluated four widely-used apps: Clue, Flo, Period Tracker by GP Apps, and Stardust.

The research trio found that Europe-based apps Clue and Flo both scored 3.5 out of 5 for privacy and security. U.S.-based apps showed varied results, with Period Tracker by GP Apps scoring 2, while Stardust scored 4.5. Major concerns involved IP address tracking and third-party data sharing for advertising purposes. The research is published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Researchers emphasized the need for improved transparency, especially given recent changes in abortion laws in the United States.

“These apps must be transparent about data storage and third-party sharing even if just for marketing or analytical purposes,” says Zadushlivy. “Given the sensitivity of reproductive health data and recent restrictions on abortion, apps should minimize data collection, exceed encryption and anonymization standards, and reduce IP address tracking to better protect users.”