Both Apple and Google have blocked a software update to the UK’s NHS Covid-19 app according to a recent report by the BBC.
The software update to the app was apparently blocked because the app broke both Google’s and Apple’s rules.
Reason for Blocking the Update
The app was expected to be used to allow people to check into venues in the UK as the lockdown rules are being eased. This feature was intended to help manage the reopening of public spaces by ensuring that individuals could be tracked if they visited a location where someone later tested positive for Covid-19. However, when Google and Apple released their software for governments to use, the governments had to agree not to collect any location data of people with their apps. It is clear that the plans to use the app to check people into locations are against these rules.
Google and Apple have been very strict about their privacy policies, especially concerning health-related apps. Their joint exposure notification system, which many countries have adopted, was designed to prioritize user privacy. This system uses Bluetooth technology to detect proximity between devices without tracking users’ locations. By attempting to add a check-in feature that collects location data, the NHS Covid-19 app update violated these fundamental privacy principles.
Alternative Solutions and Recommendations
It would have made sense for the UK government to use a different app, as they do in Scotland, for this purpose rather than try and add the feature to the NHS track and tracing app. In Scotland, a separate app called “Check In Scotland” is used for venue check-ins, which operates independently of the main contact tracing app. This approach allows for the collection of necessary data for venue check-ins without compromising the privacy standards set by Google and Apple for their exposure notification system.
Moreover, the UK government could consider developing a standalone app specifically for venue check-ins that complies with privacy regulations. This app could use QR codes or other non-intrusive methods to log visits without tracking users’ movements. Such a solution would align with the privacy expectations of both tech companies and the public, ensuring that the primary contact tracing app remains compliant and effective.
Additionally, public awareness and education about the importance of privacy in digital health tools are crucial. Users need to understand why certain features are restricted and how these measures protect their personal information. Transparency from the government and app developers can build trust and encourage wider adoption of these technologies.
In conclusion, while the intention behind the NHS Covid-19 app update was to enhance public safety during the easing of lockdown restrictions, it is essential to adhere to established privacy guidelines. By exploring alternative solutions and maintaining transparency, the UK government can effectively manage public health without compromising user privacy.
Source BBC
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