Wearable health technology is booming, with smartwatches, fitness trackers, and health monitoring devices becoming a daily part of many people’s lives. These devices track heart rates, sleep patterns, physical activity, and even stress levels. However, while they provide many benefits, they also come with serious privacy and security risks. Many users do not realize how much data these devices collect and where that data goes.
1. 1 in 5 Americans own a wearable fitness tracker or smartwatch.
Wearable technology is not a niche product anymore; it is mainstream. With one in five Americans using a fitness tracker or smartwatch, these devices are collecting massive amounts of personal health data every second.
The problem is that most users do not fully understand how their data is handled. Every step taken, calorie burned, and heartbeat recorded is valuable information, not just for users but for companies, advertisers, and even insurance providers.
This means your private health details could end up in places you never expected.
To protect yourself, always check the privacy settings on your device and disable any unnecessary data sharing. Some apps have options to turn off location tracking or limit data sharing with third-party companies.
Also, consider using devices that allow you to store data locally instead of uploading it to the cloud.
2. 92% of wearable device users are unaware of how their data is shared.
Most people assume that when they use a wearable, their data is stored securely by the company that makes the device. The reality is very different. Nearly all wearable companies collect, analyze, and sometimes sell data to third parties, including advertisers and insurance companies.
Since so many users do not know this, they do not take steps to protect themselves. The best way to stay safe is to read the privacy policy of your device. Look for information on whether your data is sold or shared. If the policy is vague or unclear, assume your data is not fully protected.
Additionally, avoid linking your wearable to unnecessary third-party apps. Every new connection increases the chances of your data being exposed. If possible, use anonymous profiles instead of linking wearables to your real identity.
3. 74% of consumers worry about how companies handle their wearable health data.
People are increasingly concerned about where their personal health data goes. The fear is justified because many companies do not prioritize security and privacy. Data breaches are common, and personal health information can be used for targeted advertising or even insurance rate adjustments.
If you are among those worried about data privacy, take steps to minimize risks. Always check what data your wearable is collecting and review permissions for any connected apps. Avoid using features you do not need, such as GPS tracking, if you are not comfortable with location data being stored.
Also, keep in mind that companies respond to consumer pressure. If a brand has a bad reputation for privacy, consider switching to a competitor that values security more. Let companies know that privacy matters by choosing wearables with better security policies.
4. 60% of wearable health apps share data with third parties without user consent.
Many wearable device apps automatically share data with third-party companies. The worst part? They often do this without informing users. This means your sleep patterns, heart rate, or even menstrual cycle tracking data could be passed along to advertisers, insurance companies, or data brokers.
To prevent this, check the app permissions on your phone. Disable any permissions that seem excessive. If an app asks for access to your contacts, location, or microphone when it does not need them, revoke those permissions immediately.
Also, consider using wearables from companies that are transparent about data sharing. Look for brands that give users full control over their data and allow them to opt out of third-party sharing.
5. 30% of wearable device users have experienced a security breach or data exposure.
A security breach in wearable health data is not a rare occurrence. A third of all users have had their data exposed at some point. Hackers target wearables because they contain sensitive personal information that can be used for fraud, identity theft, or financial scams.
If you want to keep your wearable secure, always update its software. Many breaches happen because people do not install updates, leaving vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Also, never connect your device to public Wi-Fi networks, as they are a common entry point for hackers.
Consider using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication if your device supports it. If your wearable stores financial or personal health data, treat it like a bank account and take security just as seriously.
6. Only 15% of wearable manufacturers use end-to-end encryption for data storage.
Encryption is one of the most effective ways to keep data safe, yet only a small percentage of wearable manufacturers use end-to-end encryption. This means that if someone gains access to your data, they can easily read and use it.
If you are considering buying a new wearable, research whether the company uses encryption. If they do not, think twice about purchasing it. In the meantime, you can take some precautions on your own. Use a VPN when syncing your wearable data and avoid connecting it to unsecured networks.
Some wearables also allow you to delete your data manually. Make this a habit, especially if you stop using the device. The less data stored, the less data at risk.
7. 83% of wearable device APIs are vulnerable to at least one security flaw.
An API (Application Programming Interface) is what allows different systems to communicate with each other. Most wearables rely on APIs to transfer data between the device, apps, and cloud storage. However, the majority of these APIs have at least one major security flaw.
This means that hackers can exploit vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to personal health data. If you are using a wearable, check if it allows API access and whether it has security controls. Avoid using third-party applications that connect to your wearable unless they come from trusted sources.
Additionally, report any suspicious activity or security flaws to the manufacturer. Companies need to know about these weaknesses so they can fix them before hackers take advantage.
8. 50% of fitness tracker users do not use any security settings to protect their data.
Despite the risks, half of all fitness tracker users do not take any steps to secure their data. This means they are leaving personal health records, activity logs, and biometric data exposed.
If you are not already doing so, take a few minutes to adjust your device’s security settings. Change the default password if your device allows it. Disable unnecessary data sharing, and make sure your device locks automatically when not in use.
Another simple step is logging out of the app when you are not using it. Many apps remain active in the background, constantly collecting data. Logging out ensures that data collection stops when you are done.
9. 80% of wearable devices lack multi-factor authentication (MFA) options.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security feature that requires a second step to verify your identity, such as entering a code sent to your phone. Unfortunately, most wearable devices do not offer this feature.
Without MFA, if someone gains access to your wearable account, they can easily steal or misuse your data. If your wearable supports MFA, enable it immediately. If it does not, use a password manager to create strong, unique passwords for your accounts.
Additionally, regularly monitor your wearable account for unusual activity. If you notice anything suspicious, change your password and contact customer support right away.
10. 25% of users’ health data from wearables can be linked to their identity.
One of the biggest privacy risks with wearable health data is that it can often be traced back to individual users. Even if companies claim they collect “anonymous” data, studies have shown that at least 25% of the time, this data can still be linked to a specific person.
The problem arises when companies combine health data with other sources of information, such as GPS locations, email logins, or social media accounts.
This allows them to build detailed user profiles that can be sold or used for targeted advertising. In some cases, this information has even been used by insurance companies to adjust rates or deny coverage.
To protect yourself, limit the amount of personal information you share with your wearable device. Avoid linking it to your real name, social media, or other personal accounts. If your device allows you to create an anonymous profile, take advantage of that feature.
You can also use privacy-focused alternatives when possible. Some wearables allow data storage only on the device instead of the cloud. Choosing such devices minimizes the risk of your data being exposed in a breach.
11. 40% of wearable health data is stored on cloud servers with weak encryption.
Many wearable devices automatically upload your health data to cloud servers, but nearly half of these servers lack strong encryption. This means that if a hacker gains access, they can easily read your data.
Cloud storage makes it convenient to access your health data from multiple devices, but it also introduces significant security risks. A breach at the cloud provider’s end could expose millions of users’ sensitive health information.
To minimize this risk, check if your wearable device offers local storage options. If possible, disable automatic cloud syncing and store your data directly on your device. If you must use cloud storage, choose a wearable that encrypts data both in transit and at rest.
It is also important to regularly review the security settings on your wearable’s companion app. Some apps allow you to delete old data or restrict how much information is uploaded to the cloud. Doing this ensures that even if a breach happens, there is less data at risk.
12. 67% of wearable apps do not specify how long they retain user data.
One of the biggest privacy concerns with wearables is that most apps do not tell users how long they keep their data. This means that even after you stop using a device, your personal health information may still be stored indefinitely.
Some companies retain data for years, even if the user deletes their account. Others claim to delete data upon request but do not actually follow through. This creates a serious risk if the company is later hacked or sells the data to third parties.
To take control of your health data, regularly check your wearable app’s privacy settings.
Look for options that allow you to delete old data and request full account deletion when you stop using a service. If a company does not provide clear information on data retention, assume your data is being kept indefinitely and act accordingly.
Additionally, consider contacting customer support and explicitly requesting data deletion. Some companies only remove data upon direct request, so it is worth the extra effort to ensure your information is erased.
13. 56% of healthcare providers integrate wearable data into patient records.
Many healthcare providers are now using wearable health data as part of patient medical records. This can be beneficial for tracking chronic conditions, improving fitness levels, or monitoring recovery. However, it also raises privacy concerns.
When wearable data becomes part of a medical record, it falls under different privacy laws. In some cases, it may be shared with insurance companies or other healthcare providers without explicit consent. This can impact health coverage, employment opportunities, or even legal cases.
If your doctor wants to integrate your wearable data into your medical records, ask how that data will be used and who will have access. You can also request to see what information is being stored. If you are uncomfortable sharing specific data points, discuss options for limiting what is included.
It is also a good practice to read the privacy policies of any health apps connected to your wearable. If you are using a third-party app to share data with your doctor, ensure it complies with healthcare privacy laws to avoid unexpected data exposure.
14. 90% of wearable device security flaws are due to outdated software.
One of the most common reasons wearables are hacked is because users fail to update their devices. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities, but many users ignore them.
Outdated software makes it easier for hackers to exploit weaknesses in the system. Once inside, they can steal personal health data, track location history, or even manipulate device functions.
To stay secure, always update your wearable’s software as soon as a new version is available. Many devices allow you to enable automatic updates, which ensures you are always protected.
Also, be cautious about using older wearables that no longer receive security updates. If your device is more than a few years old and no longer gets support from the manufacturer, consider upgrading to a newer, more secure model.
15. 65% of users do not read the privacy policies of their wearable devices.
Most people skip reading the privacy policy when they first set up their wearable. Unfortunately, this means they may be agreeing to data collection practices they are not comfortable with.
Privacy policies often include information on how data is collected, stored, shared, and sold. If you do not read these details, you might be giving companies permission to use your health data in ways you did not expect.
To protect yourself, take a few minutes to skim through the privacy policy of your wearable device. Look for key sections that mention data sharing, retention periods, and third-party access. If the policy is too complicated, search for a summary online or check customer reviews for any privacy concerns.
You should also revisit the privacy settings in your app from time to time. Some companies update their policies without informing users, so staying informed ensures you are always in control of your data.
16. 70% of wearable device breaches occur due to weak passwords.
A weak password is one of the easiest ways for hackers to gain access to your wearable data. Unfortunately, most people still use simple passwords that can be easily guessed or cracked.
If your wearable device requires a login, use a strong password that includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using common passwords like “123456” or “password.”
Where possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security. This ensures that even if someone gets your password, they will still need a second verification step to access your account.
If your device does not support 2FA, consider using a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each of your accounts. This reduces the risk of hacking, even if one of your passwords is exposed in a breach.
17. 12% of wearable health data is sold to advertisers without user knowledge.
Many people assume that their wearable health data stays private, but research shows that a significant portion is sold to advertisers without user consent. This means that companies are profiting from your personal health information without your knowledge.
The most common way this happens is through connected apps. Some fitness and health tracking apps collect more data than they need and share it with advertising partners. This allows advertisers to target users based on their fitness habits, stress levels, or even sleep patterns.
To protect yourself, review the privacy settings in your wearable app and disable any data-sharing options. If an app requires you to agree to data sharing, consider switching to a different one that respects user privacy.
You can also use privacy-focused browsers and ad blockers to limit tracking from third-party advertisers. Being mindful of where your data goes helps prevent companies from exploiting it for profit.
18. 47% of wearable users have never updated their device’s firmware.
Firmware updates are critical for security, yet nearly half of wearable users never update their devices. This is a major issue because manufacturers frequently release updates to fix security vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.
Old firmware can contain weaknesses that cybercriminals can use to gain access to your data. Hackers can intercept Bluetooth signals, manipulate step counts, or even track your location.
If your device is connected to a phone or computer, an unpatched vulnerability could allow them to steal more than just health data.
To stay protected, check for firmware updates at least once a month. Many wearable apps have an option to enable automatic updates—turn this on if available. If your wearable stops receiving updates from the manufacturer, consider replacing it with a newer, more secure model.
You should also avoid buying older, second-hand wearables unless you can confirm they are still supported with security patches. A good rule of thumb is that if a company has not released an update in over a year, your data might be at risk.
19. 38% of wearable apps request excessive permissions unrelated to health tracking.
Some wearable apps request permissions that have nothing to do with health tracking. For example, a fitness tracker app might ask for access to your contacts, microphone, or even camera. These unnecessary permissions can be a sign that the app is collecting more data than it needs.
The reason behind this is often data monetization. Some companies gather extra data to sell to advertisers or use it for personalized marketing. This means your private health and lifestyle habits could be exposed to third parties without your knowledge.
To prevent this, carefully review the permissions you grant to wearable apps. If an app requests access to data that seems unnecessary, deny the request. For example, a heart rate monitor should not need access to your text messages or photos.
If you are unsure which permissions are essential, research the app before installing it. Many security experts publish reviews of popular apps, explaining which permissions are truly needed and which ones are red flags.
20. 85% of wearable companies share aggregated data with third-party firms.
Even if a company claims it does not sell individual user data, that does not mean your information is safe.
Many wearable companies collect data, strip away identifying details, and then sell “aggregated” reports to third parties. These reports may include general trends on heart rates, sleep patterns, and activity levels, but they still originate from real users.
While aggregated data is supposedly anonymous, it is often possible to re-identify individuals by cross-referencing with other datasets. This means your data might still be linked back to you without your consent.
To limit exposure, choose wearable brands that explicitly state they do not share data with third parties. You can often find this information in the company’s privacy policy. If an app or wearable does not provide a clear answer, assume your data is being shared.
Additionally, some companies allow users to opt out of data sharing. Check your device settings to see if you can disable data collection for marketing or research purposes.
21. 48% of users would stop using a wearable if they knew their data was mishandled.
Consumer trust is critical for wearable companies, and nearly half of users say they would stop using a device if they found out their data was being misused.
This shows that people care about privacy, but many do not realize the risks until a breach occurs. Unfortunately, by the time users become aware, their data may have already been shared or sold.
To avoid falling victim to poor data practices, research a company’s privacy reputation before purchasing a wearable. Look at past security incidents, check for lawsuits related to data privacy, and read user reviews about transparency and security.
If a company has been involved in multiple data breaches or has unclear privacy policies, it is best to look for an alternative. Switching to a more privacy-focused brand sends a clear message that consumers value security.
22. 59% of wearable owners believe companies prioritize profits over privacy.
Most wearable users do not trust manufacturers to prioritize privacy. With so many companies making money from data collection, users feel that their security is secondary to profit.
This is why it is important for consumers to take matters into their own hands. Do not assume that a company will protect your data—take steps to secure it yourself.
Before purchasing a wearable, read independent reviews and research how the company handles privacy. If a company has a history of data misuse, avoid their products. Choose brands that clearly outline how they store and protect user information.
You can also advocate for better privacy laws by supporting organizations that fight for data protection rights. As consumers become more vocal, companies may be pressured to adopt stronger security measures.
23. 64% of wearables transmit unencrypted data over Bluetooth.
Many wearable devices use Bluetooth to sync data with smartphones or computers. However, nearly two-thirds of them do not encrypt this data, making it vulnerable to interception.
Hackers can exploit this by using a technique called “Bluetooth sniffing.” This allows them to eavesdrop on the data being transmitted between your wearable and your phone. If your device lacks encryption, your health data could be stolen without you even realizing it.
To protect yourself, disable Bluetooth when you are not actively syncing data. Avoid using your wearable in public places with high risks of hacking, such as airports or coffee shops. If your device has a “secure mode” for Bluetooth connections, enable it.
It is also worth checking whether your wearable brand has updated its security protocols. Some manufacturers have improved their encryption standards, so always install software updates when available.
24. 77% of consumers think biometric wearable data should be strictly regulated.
With the rise of biometric tracking (heart rate, blood oxygen levels, sleep patterns), most consumers believe stricter regulations are needed to protect their data. Unlike regular data, biometric information is permanent—if it is leaked, you cannot change it like a password.
Governments are slowly introducing regulations, but progress is slow. This means it is up to users to protect their biometric data until stronger laws are in place.
If your wearable tracks biometric information, make sure you understand where that data is stored and who has access. Some wearables store data locally, while others send it to the cloud. If cloud storage is required, check if the data is encrypted.
Also, be cautious about sharing biometric data with third-party apps. Some apps claim to offer “health insights” but actually collect and sell data. Only use apps that have a strong privacy policy and clear data security practices.
25. 42% of health insurance companies use wearable data for policy pricing.
Many health insurance companies are now using wearable data to adjust policy rates. This means your fitness tracker could directly impact how much you pay for health coverage.
Some insurers offer discounts for users who meet fitness goals, while others penalize users for inactivity. The problem is that users are often not fully aware of how their data is being used in policy decisions.
If you participate in an insurance program that tracks wearable data, read the terms carefully. Understand how your activity levels influence your policy and whether opting out is possible.
If you are uncomfortable with your insurer using your wearable data, look for policies that do not require tracking. Some insurers still offer traditional plans without wearable monitoring.
26. 50% of smartwatch users are unaware their location data is continuously tracked.
Many smartwatches come with GPS features that track movement in real time. However, half of users do not realize that their location data is being stored, sometimes indefinitely.
Location tracking can be useful for fitness tracking, but it also poses privacy risks. If your smartwatch logs your movements and stores them in the cloud, that data could be accessed by hackers or third parties.
To limit exposure, check your smartwatch settings and disable location tracking when it is not needed. Some devices allow you to delete location history—do this regularly.
Additionally, be mindful of which apps have access to your location data. Many third-party fitness apps request GPS access, even if it is not necessary for their functions. Remove any unnecessary location permissions to protect your privacy.
27. 80% of wearable users assume their data is protected when it often isn’t.
A large majority of wearable users trust that their health data is secure simply because it is being stored by a well-known company. However, many wearable manufacturers have weak security practices, making data vulnerable to breaches, unauthorized access, and misuse.
The issue is that companies do not always prioritize security unless they are forced to. Many devices lack proper encryption, store data indefinitely, or sell user information to third parties. Without strict regulations, wearable companies have little incentive to improve security unless users demand it.
To protect yourself, do not assume your data is safe—verify it. Look into the security measures your wearable company uses. Do they encrypt data both in transit and at rest?
Do they offer two-factor authentication? Have they had past security breaches? A simple online search can reveal if a company has had privacy issues.
Also, use additional security layers where possible. A VPN can help protect data transfers, and using a strong password for your wearable app account adds another layer of protection. Taking proactive steps ensures your data is safer, even if the company does not prioritize security.
28. 20% of wearable manufacturers have faced lawsuits over data privacy concerns.
Data privacy lawsuits against wearable companies are becoming more common. As more people become aware of how their data is being misused, legal actions are being taken against companies that fail to protect user privacy.
Many of these lawsuits involve companies collecting more data than they disclose, failing to secure user data, or selling personal information without permission.
Some lawsuits have resulted in multi-million-dollar settlements, but the fact that these cases keep happening shows that many companies still do not take privacy seriously.
Before buying a wearable, check if the manufacturer has been involved in privacy lawsuits. If a company has a history of legal issues related to data privacy, it is a sign that they may not be trustworthy.
Users can also take part in class-action lawsuits if they believe their data has been misused. If a company is violating privacy laws, consumers have the right to hold them accountable.
The best way to push companies toward better privacy practices is to demand transparency. Support brands that prioritize security, and avoid those with a poor track record.
29. 91% of wearable device breaches are due to insufficient security measures.
The majority of wearable data breaches occur because companies do not put strong security measures in place. These breaches often happen because of weak encryption, outdated software, or lack of authentication protections.
Hackers target wearables because they know many companies do not secure them as well as traditional computers or smartphones. Once a breach happens, users often have no way to recover their lost data.
To reduce your risk, choose wearables from companies that have a strong reputation for security. Look for brands that use encryption, offer two-factor authentication, and regularly update their firmware.
You should also take personal steps to secure your data. Never reuse passwords across multiple accounts, avoid connecting your wearable to public Wi-Fi, and limit the data your device collects. If your wearable allows manual data deletion, do it regularly.
Taking responsibility for your own security is crucial because many companies are not doing enough to protect you.
30. 53% of wearable health data leaks happen due to vulnerabilities in third-party integrations.
Many wearables allow users to sync their health data with third-party apps, such as fitness trackers, diet planners, or social media accounts. However, more than half of data leaks come from these third-party integrations.
The problem is that when data is shared with another app, it is no longer under the original wearable company’s security protections. If the third-party app has weak security, your data could be exposed. Some apps even collect more data than necessary and sell it to advertisers.
To protect yourself, be selective about which apps you allow to access your wearable data. Only connect to trusted apps with strong security policies. If an app does not clearly explain how it protects your data, do not use it.
You should also regularly review which apps have access to your wearable. Many people forget about old integrations, leaving their data exposed for years. Remove any apps you no longer use to minimize risk.
If a third-party app is required for a function you need, check if there are privacy-friendly alternatives. Some apps allow offline use, meaning your data stays on your device rather than being shared with external servers.
wrapping it up
Wearable health devices are transforming the way we track our fitness and monitor our well-being. They provide valuable insights into our daily lives, helping us stay active, sleep better, and manage stress.
However, this convenience comes at a cost—our personal health data is constantly being collected, stored, and, in many cases, shared with third parties without our full awareness.
