Blue Shield’s Blunder: How Your Health Data Became Google’s Ad Target
Blue Shield of California accidentally handed over sensitive health information to Google’s ad empire, putting 4.7 million members’ privacy in jeopardy. From medical claims to doctor searches, their data could have fueled targeted ads. Who knew booking a doctor’s appointment could lead to a tailored ad experience? HIPAA compliance, anyone?
Hot Take:
Here’s a novel idea: why don’t we just hand our private health information to the nearest billboard company and let them have a field day with it? After all, Blue Shield seems to think it’s a great plan, given their accidental handover of 4.7 million sensitive medical records to Google. Who knew that booking a doctor’s appointment could lead to a surprise ad campaign for specialized medical services? Maybe next time, they’ll throw in a free gift card for our troubles!
Key Points:
- Blue Shield of California accidentally shared 4.7 million members’ health info with Google.
- Data may have included medical claims, provider details, and patient personal information.
- The info was shared via Google Analytics, leading to targeted advertising by Google Ads.
- Blue Shield claims ignorance on whether specific members’ info was affected.
- The company has since severed the link between Google Analytics and Google Ads.