Costco Pharmacy Sends Sensitive Health Data to Third Parties

Two proposed class action lawsuits have been filed against retail giant Costco, alleging that the company unlawfully collects and transmits sensitive customer information to third parties without their knowledge or consent. The lawsuits claim that Costco's data collection practices violate HIPAA, the Federal Trade Act, and federal and state wiretapping laws. The lawsuits estimate that hundreds of thousands or possibly over a million people have been affected by these practices. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has previously warned entities about the use of tracking technologies that transmit personally identifying information without proper authorization. Similar lawsuits have been filed against other companies accused of unlawfully collecting and disclosing sensitive health and personal information. The lawsuits seek financial damages and an injunction to address the alleged harm caused by Costco's conduct.