data they have consented to sharing.
It will also consider whether apps are requesting or storing unnecessary volumes of data, and whether users are receiving upsetting targeted advertising that they did not sign up to.
According to research published last year by the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps, most period trackers share data with third parties.
It said of the 25 apps it examined, only one kept all the sensitive data on the mobile phone or device owned by the user. The organisation also identified widespread problems with the way users gave consent for their personal information to be used.
The ICO is urging app users to come forward to share their experiences via a survey on its website. It is also commissioning focus groups and user testing. Women’s health groups have also offered support.
The regulator has also contacted companies who provide period and fertility tracking apps, including some of the most popular apps available to UK users, to find out how they are processing users’ personal information.
The ICO’s survey involved 1,152 UK women aged 18 and above.
Source:BBC
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