The U.S. Federal Telecommunications Commission (FTC) wants Apple to assure everyone that the health data collected by its devices will remain confidential.
Two Reuters sources said that the tech giant has been talking with the agency about health data privacy. Apparently, the federal agency wants to make sure that the collected health data will not be sold to other businesses, especially without the users' consent.
Apple recently introduced the HealthKit app, which will allow users to monitor their health data such as blood pressure, weight and other body measurements. Data is stored in Apple's server, and this can be accessed by the patient's doctor when necessary. Although it is a promising tool, some are apprehensive about privacy issues, especially because medical data is very sensitive and private information.
To address this problem, Apple said it will create a HealthKit Certification that will detail how the device can safely store patient's data, as well as prohibit the sale of this data to third party organizations such as advertisers. The company is also collaborating with the government and outside lawyers to ensure it is aligned with existing data protection policies.
"We've been very encouraged by their support," Apple spokeswoman Trudy Muller told Reuters.
The sources claimed that the FTC has no plans of investigating Apple regarding privacy, but it is particular about the measures taken to guarantee confidentiality. The agency is closely keeping an eye on the Apple smartwatch.
In August, Apple detailed the restrictions for the developers of the HealthKit app. Developers are not allowed to access any data collected by the app, and said data should not be used for any purpose other than health or fitness services, according to the Apple Insider.
With the HealthKit and iWatch at bay, Apple is hoping to take the lead in global modern healthcare. The company promised FTC that it will continue to implement strict privacy rules to gain consumers' trust.
