As the opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the United States, digital health services have emerged as a beacon of hope for increasing access to essential addiction treatment and recovery support. However, the promise of these digital platforms is marred by significant privacy and security concerns that threaten the very fabric of effective addiction healthcare. The following provides a...

In an era where personal data is as valuable as currency, a recent report by The Washington Post has shed light on a concerning practice in America's largest pharmacy chains. The investigation reveals that pharmacies like CVS Health, Kroger, and Rite Aid have been sharing customers' prescription records with police and government investigators without a warrant. This revelation raises significant concerns...

In an age where data privacy is a paramount concern, particularly in the realm of personal health information (PHI), consumers and patients can learn valuable lessons from the privacy settings in iOS 17. By adapting strategies used to secure data on smartphones, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their PHI.

 

The increasing concerns over online privacy, particularly for consumer health data, are being addressed by key agencies like the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). However, there remains a significant gap in protecting the privacy of individuals seeking online services for drug use, substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, or recovery.

As DNA testing becomes more commonplace, the information it reveals — from our ancestral roots to health predispositions — becomes a tantalizing target for malicious actors. Beyond the obvious concerns of identity theft and fraud, the article delves into more nuanced threats, including blackmail based on genetic secrets, potential discrimination from employers or insurers, and the unsettling prospects...