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Why Deleting Your Period App Won’t Protect Your Privacy In A Post-‘Roe’ World?

Lifestyle October, 17, 2023

In light of the Supreme Court's decision on Roe many folks are scratching their heads wondering how to keep their online activities private. With the Court's latest move tweets are flying left and right about erasing period-tracking apps and sealing up reproductive health data. Given the haze around this figuring out the next steps is quite a puzzle.

But hey there are things we're sure about! Like did you know? Facebook gathers our secrets and shares them with groups against abortion. Posts related to abortion get hidden on social platforms and Google's becoming a big player in U.S. police work. And this isn't just a guess; history has stories for us. In 2017 Mississippi cops blamed a lady named Latice Fisher for a crime using her phone info about searching for abortion pills. Good news: after three years she was proven innocent. Recently in Texas Lizelle Herrera got arrested because someone thought she tried to abort her baby herself. People spoke up and her charges were dropped too.

It feels odd because loads of Americans believe in abortion rights. So the U.S. isn’t exactly moving backward; it's diving into a weird space. Here personal rights health choices internet actions and even where you go are up for grabs! Phew! That's overwhelming!

Still don't fret! You can be sneaky online especially about period-tracking and searching for abortion info. Here's the lowdown:

Do I trash my period-tracking app? Uncertain waters ahead! Many period apps aren’t guarded by big health privacy laws. That means the police could peek at your period history if they wanted. The surefire way to hide your cycle details? Ditch the app. Easy peasy! But hang on! Before going on a deleting spree see how your info is kept safe.

Wondering where your data might wander off? It could go to folks who buy data platforms like Facebook or even the police. So dig into your app’s privacy rules. Find the "use/disclosure" bit to see when your details might be shared. No such section? Red flag! Bethany Corbin an expert on app security says “There's a big chance that these apps could spill our secrets either by getting hacked by a police order or someone selling our info.”

After the Roe decision some apps bragged about their "hidden" modes. But they might not be that hidden. Bethany adds “Your so-called 'hidden' data can sometimes be spotted. If you aren't sure better not put anything in the app."

Sam Dawson a computer safety guru suggests avoiding period apps. He mentions "Once your secrets are out there's no undo button. Guard your personal health info. Don't let others misuse it.” However if you're keen on an app some gather fewer details. A study showed Cycle Tracking FEMN and Spot On are safer than Eve Flow Ovia or Flo. And guess what? The good ol' paper calendar always works!

Safe way to search for abortion details? When hunting for abortion info use a VPN. This tool hides your online actions keeping them secret from even your internet company. VPNs are kid's play to get on your computer. Sam thinks Private Internet Access is a top-notch VPN.

Worried about being tracked by location? If you're traveling to another state for abortion services yep be cautious. Bethany advises “Shut off any apps that know where you are. Maybe even leave your gadgets at home so nobody knows where you’re headed.” Also if you're getting abortion meds make sure you take them in that state before heading home.

For ultra safety? Leave your phone and only use cash.

Chatting about abortion online? Be super careful about who you share your baby news or abortion plans with online and in person. Rebecca Wang a legal expert says “The main thing folks should watch out for now is other folks.” She nudges people to think twice before sharing personal health news.

If you gotta chat use secure apps. Signal is a great choice. WhatsApp works but Sam warns “WhatsApp gives some user info back to Facebook." That includes info like who you chat with when and which device just not the actual chat.

Anything else to remember? Stay smart about your online traces and who you share stuff with. For handy tips check the New York Times guide on keeping your personal data under wraps. Pick and choose apps browsers and chat tools wisely. With so much changing it's wise to develop safer online habits. If you have any questions about abortion rights