FTC Takes Legal Action Against Hims & Hers Over Privacy Violations

FTC Takes Action Against Hims & Hers

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in partnership with California and Utah, has filed a lawsuit against Hims & Hers Inc., alleging serious breaches of privacy and deceptive marketing practices. The complaint, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, claims the telehealth provider misrepresented the privacy of its services while sharing sensitive health information with advertising platforms.

According to the FTC, Hims & Hers assured users that their healthcare experience was "100% online, private, and secure," yet the company allegedly disclosed personal health data to third-party networks including Meta and Snap without proper user consent. Christopher Mufarrige, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, stated, "The FTC’s complaint outlines a concerning scenario where consumers are unknowingly locked into recurring subscriptions, and their most private health information is shared with third parties without consent."

The complaint highlights Hims' use of tracking tools from various platforms, such as Google and TikTok, which reportedly relayed user activity data contrary to the company’s privacy claims. Hims & Hers is well-known for offering prescription medications, particularly in the area of sexual wellness, and has been accused of misleading marketing regarding its privacy guarantees.

Moreover, the lawsuit alleges that Hims enrolled customers in recurring prescription subscriptions without their informed consent. The company purportedly offered "free consultations" but many customers found themselves automatically charged and subscribed immediately after a provider reviewed their intake forms. The complaint further states that Hims obscured cancellation options, making it difficult for users to end their subscriptions.

The FTC's lawsuit cites violations of several laws, including the FTC Act and California’s False Advertising Law, seeking a permanent injunction, financial penalties, and other remedies. The agency emphasized its commitment to consumer protection, asserting that it will take action when it believes companies are violating the law. Hims & Hers has yet to respond to the allegations as the case proceeds through the courts.