The Privacy Risks of Location Tracking in the Age of COVID-19

COVID-19 Raises the Stakes for Location Tracking: Privacy Concerns and Regulatory Challenges

The COVID-19 crisis has brought to light the importance of location tracking in containing the spread of the virus. Governments and businesses have turned to geolocation tracking apps and devices to monitor individuals’ movements and contacts, ensuring compliance with quarantine and social-distancing measures. However, a recent security analysis by Guardsquare revealed that many government tracking apps are vulnerable to hacking, raising concerns about the privacy and security of personal data.

Human rights groups have also voiced concerns about the invasive nature of these tracking apps, warning that they could be used beyond the pandemic for surveillance purposes. Norway’s Data Protection Agency even banned the country’s tracking app for collecting excessive data. Similarly, businesses are exploring new technologies to monitor employee movements at work, raising fears about the potential for continuous surveillance even after the crisis ends.

The increased use of location tracking has prompted the introduction of new privacy regulations around the world. The EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) now require explicit consent for location tracking, giving individuals more control over their personal data. Compliance with these regulations can be costly, but businesses that prioritize privacy protection will gain a competitive advantage in the long run.

Addressing privacy risks related to location tracking requires cross-functional collaboration within organizations. Legal and compliance professionals must work closely with IT departments to identify and mitigate risks, while talent management should focus on educating employees about the purpose of location tracking. Information security and technology professionals must stay updated on evolving technologies to ensure data security.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of privacy in location tracking. Businesses must carefully evaluate the impact of tracking activities on privacy and comply with data protection regulations to avoid legal and reputational risks. By prioritizing privacy protection, businesses can build trust with consumers and employees, gaining a competitive edge in an increasingly privacy-conscious world.