Security News > 2020 > October > UK privacy watchdog confirms probe into NHS England COVID-19 app after complaints of spammy emails, texts
Britain's Information Commissioner's Office has confirmed it is investigating grumbles about heavy-handed marketing emails and texts promoting the NHS COVID-19 contact-tracing app in England.
Between 26 and 27 September, NHS Test and Trace messaged anyone resident in the country who was over the age of 16 and had previously provided their contact details to a GP. Those contacted had not specifically opted in to receive marketing communications regarding the NHS COVID-19 app.
"England is experiencing a second peak of coronavirus transmission, resulting in a number of local restrictions and tightening of national restrictions. Encouraging people to download the NHS COVID-19 app is considered by the Department of Health and Social Care to be a highly important tool for managing and monitoring the outbreak, and a matter of public interest."
"We have received complaints in relation to text and email messages being sent about the NHS COVID-19 app and we are making enquiries," said an ICO spokesperson.
The Register has asked the UK government's Department for Health and Social Care and NHS Digital to comment.