Are your period tracking apps secretly sharing your personal data? A new report from the University of Cambridge’s Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy raises serious concerns about the potential for misuse of the intimate information collected by these apps.

The report, published recently, reveals that menstrual cycle tracking app (CTA) data is incredibly valuable for creating detailed consumer profiles. This is because the data offers a wealth of information about a woman’s health and lifestyle, making it a ‘veritable gold mine’ for targeted advertising and potentially other uses.

These apps, which provide convenient centralized tracking of menstrual cycles, fertility predictions, and symptom monitoring, are incredibly popular. They’re especially helpful for women with irregular periods or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis. But this convenience comes at a cost: the potential for the mass sale and exploitation of deeply personal health data.

The Cambridge researchers highlight the significant privacy risks involved. The sheer volume of data collected, ranging from cycle details to personal health conditions, presents a concerning picture. The report emphasizes the need for greater transparency and stricter regulations to protect women’s data privacy in the ever-growing market of period tracking applications.

This isn’t just about targeted advertising; the implications are far-reaching and require careful consideration. We urge users to carefully review the privacy policies of their chosen apps and encourage a broader discussion on responsible data handling in the health tech space.