23% of U.S. broadband households have privacy and security concerns related to usage of connected health devices and the same percentage have a similar level of concern about fitness tracking devices. According to Parks Associates research, both device categories scored low compared to other devices, including smart door locks (40%) and tablets (42%), but the smartphone, which many consumers use with wellness and fitness apps, is among the highest with 41% concerned about security or privacy violations.

“The connected health industries, device manufacturers, and app developers not only need to ensure they have strong security measures in place but also that consumers are aware of the steps they are taking to protect their data,” said Harry Wang, Director, Health and Mobile Product, Parks Associates. “Already 35% of consumers worry their personal health information will not remain confidential if online, and with high-profile data hacks making big headlines, consumers are expecting companies to take strong security measures to protect them.”

Wang went on to suggest that a clear consumer bill of rights could establish limits and extend consumer control over the collection and use of health data. “Concerns about data security have the potential to be a significant inhibitor to adoption, and the industry needs to inform and empower consumers on the security and usage of their data to drive long-term adoption and usage,” he added.