Providing market intelligence for more than 35 years

In The News

Survey: Consumers Prefer Keeping Wearable Device Data from Insurers

According to research firm Parks Associates, the majority of those surveyed indicated that they are not willing to share data collected from wearable devices, even if it meant receiving a discount on their health insurance premiums. In spite of this reluctance, these same consumers were willing to share data for the purpose of troubleshooting the devices themselves.

The results of the survey varied significantly by device. Forty-two percent of digital pedometer owners were willing to share data in order to receive a health insurance discount; for smartwatch owners the total was 35 percent; and for sleep-quality monitor owners it was 26 percent. Nevertheless, a solid majority of device owners was not willing to share data.

Consumers are justified in their concerns about health data privacy. The Los Angeles Times told in July of a security breach in October 2014 where hackers compromised UCLA Health Systems’ computer network, putting 4.5 million patients’ sensitive data at risk. What was troubling about the incident was that it took nearly seven months from the time suspicious activity was discovered in October, to May 5, which is when investigators determined the system was hacked. Additionally troubling was that the data was not even encrypted.

From the article "Survey: Consumers Prefer Keeping Wearable Device Data from Insurers" by Christopher Mohr.

Previously In The News

Disney and FOX Don’t Think Their New Sports Bundle Will Wreck Cable TV. Are They in Denial?

Consulting firm Parks Associates found 40% of US traditional pay-TV subscribers still watch live sports via Legacy pay TV. “This could be a win for the sport streaming consumer searching for their...

46% of pay-TV subscribers show interest in smart more control features, survey finds

In recent findings by Parks Associates, a trend among pay-TV subscribers underscores a growing inclination towards integrating smart home and security functionalities within their TV services. The...

Interest Is Growing for a More Interactive TV-Watching Experience

New data from research firm Parks Associates found that 46% of cable TV subscribers find emerging home control and interactive features, provided through their TV service, appealing or very appealing....

More Than 60% of U.S. Households Feel They’re Paying Too Much For Electricity

New data from market researcher Parks Associates shows 60% of U.S. households think they’re paying too much for electricity. The firm will host dozens of experts from Big Tech and energy companies...