[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] As the COVID-19 pandemic led to reduced outings, more people have been turning to mental health-related applications (apps). Experts are raising concerns about privacy and other issues.
On the 25th (local time), US CNBC cited app information company Sensor Tower, reporting that last month, new downloads of about 20 mental health-related apps in the United States exceeded 4 million. This marks a significant increase compared to 3.1 million in January this year.
Sensor Tower stated, "These types of apps typically show strong performance at the beginning of the year and then gradually decline," adding, "This year, due to COVID-19, the pattern has been different." In fact, while new downloads in April last year decreased by about 30% compared to the beginning of the year, this year they have instead increased.
CNBC explained that as face-to-face treatment became difficult due to COVID-19 and other factors, people sought help through their smartphones.
For this reason, investment funds are also increasing. In the first quarter, investments in mental health-related apps reached $576 million (approximately 720 billion KRW).
CNBC also noted that the US government's deregulation is helping the growth of mental health apps. Concerned about increasing mental health difficulties due to COVID-19 and other factors, the US government has been easing related regulations. Some US states have even relaxed qualification requirements.
While this deregulation has sparked innovation, concerns about side effects have also been raised. In particular, there are potential restrictions related to privacy invasion and information autonomy. Mental health-related apps may share sensitive personal information, placing them in a regulatory blind spot.
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