The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has officially rescinded its 2021 Policy Statement on Breaches by Health Apps and Other Connected Devices. This policy was initially intended to apply the FTC’s Health Breach Notification Rule to health apps and connected devices that collect consumer health information.

However, in 2024, the Commission updated the Health Breach Notification Rule to encompass health apps and connected devices, such as fitness trackers, making the previous policy statement redundant. The decision to withdraw the statement aligns with a broader initiative to streamline federal regulations.

In an executive order, former President Donald J. Trump instructed federal agencies to eliminate not only unnecessary rules but also outdated guidance documents and policy statements. This move aims to reduce the complexity of federal regulations and enhance benefits for American consumers.