Privacy Digest 15/25
The Markup caught 4 more states sharing personal health data with Big Tech
Healthcare exchanges in Nevada, Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island shared users’ sensitive health data with companies like Google and LinkedIn.
themarkup.org
Trial begins in data privacy case against menstrual tracking app Flo
A period tracking app shared users' highly sensitive information to third parties, including Meta, without permission, an attorney for a class of user plaintiffs told a jury in federal court in San Francisco on July 21. Users of the app, operated by Flo Health Inc., sued the company in 2021, claiming it improperly shared personal identifying information and private health data with third parties, including fellow defendants Facebook — now known as Meta — Google, ad analytics company AppsFlyer and defunct analytics company Flurry.
courthousenews.com
User privacy app Cloaked adds AI-powered caller screening
Cloaked is releasing a new call guard feature to let an AI-powered bot chat to scammers on a user's behalf.
techcrunch.com
Passkeys Are the Future of Account Security: What They Are, and Why You Need Them
Passkeys deliver protection that puts passwords in the dust. PCMag has the details on how they work, where to set them up, and how they keep your accounts safe.
pcmag.com
Shape the Web Your Way by Erasing Different Distractions
Discover how Ghostery gives you even more day-to-day control and lets you hide content blocks on any webpage, like chatbot bubbles or layout blocks, going far beyond traditional ad blocking. Best part? Your preferences stick. Every time you return, your cleaner web experience comes with you.
ghostery.com
The Age-Checked Internet Has Arrived
The UK has launched strict age-verification laws requiring adults to prove they are over 18 to access pornography and other sensitive online content. Methods include facial scans, ID uploads, and credit card checks. Supporters say these laws protect children, but critics warn of major privacy and free speech concerns. Similar regulations are spreading globally, with age checks now required or tested in the US, EU countries like France and Ireland, and Australia. Experts argue that the systems are intrusive, technically flawed, and risk normalizing surveillance while giving a false sense of safety, potentially harming both adults’ and children’s access to vital information.
wired.com