Meta’s violation of user privacy in Flo app sparks outrage

A California jury has ruled that Meta violated state privacy laws by illegally collecting sensitive user data from a period tracking app. The case, which focused on Meta’s role in accessing users' in-app communications through the Flo period tracker, concluded that the tech company had intentionally eavesdropped on millions of users. This major privacy violation has reignited growing concerns about how reproductive health apps handle and share personal information. The focus keyword Meta illegally collected period tracking app data appears in the court’s findings and highlights the severity of this breach.

Flo app data was secretly intercepted by Meta

Between 2016 and 2019, users of the Flo app trusted the platform with highly sensitive menstrual health data. Despite promising strict privacy protections, the app reportedly allowed Meta to access private user interactions without clear consent. According to the court, Meta used electronic tools to tap into these in-app conversations, a direct violation of California’s Invasion of Privacy Act. This decision underscores the need for greater transparency and stronger safeguards in the growing health app industry, especially when dealing with personal health information.

Only Meta faced trial as others settled out of court

The original lawsuit, filed in 2021, also named other major tech companies that allegedly had access to Flo’s private user data. However, cases against those companies were settled confidentially before trial, leaving Meta as the only defendant. The jury found compelling evidence that Meta had knowingly and intentionally intercepted communications without user awareness. While monetary damages have not yet been finalized, California law allows $5,000 in penalties per violation—meaning Meta could face substantial financial consequences for its actions.

Why this ruling matters for health app users

This landmark case has serious implications for reproductive health privacy and digital consent. Millions of people rely on period tracking apps for managing their health, especially in a post-Roe landscape where privacy concerns around reproductive data are more urgent than ever. The finding that Meta illegally collected period tracking app data sends a powerful message about accountability in the tech industry. It also reinforces the need for users to be cautious when sharing health details with apps that may not fully safeguard their privacy.