Blood Pressure App Marketer Settles FTC Allegations About Accuracy of Readings

Aura Labs, marketer of a mobile blood pressure app, agreed to settle FTC allegations the app's readings aren't as precise as a traditional around-the-arm blood pressure cuff, said the commission in a Monday news release. Commissioners voted 3-0 to authorize staff to file the complaint and stipulated order, which was filed and signed by a judge in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, the FTC said. “For someone with high blood pressure who relies on accurate readings, this deception can actually be hazardous,” said Consumer Protection Bureau Director Jessica Rich. “While the Commission encourages the development of new technologies, health-related claims should not go beyond the scientific evidence available to support them.” The commission said the company, which does business as AuraLife and AuraWare, and its co-owner Ryan Archdeacon are barred from making deceptive claims about the app and any health benefit claims without supporting scientific evidence. The settlement also imposed a nearly $600,000 judgment, which is suspended because the defendants are unable to pay unless they misrepresented their financial condition, the commission said. In a statement on the company's website, Archdeacon said the dialogue with the FTC "was a learning experience" for both sides and the company values consumer safety. "That being said, we feel that the agency's heavy handed approach can stifle innovation with a costly and bureaucratic process," he said. "A conversation regarding potential concerns early on would have allowed the Commission and the company to reach a swift resolution, saving time, energy and taxpayer dollars."