Currently there are no ethical guidelines for mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) despite the rapid innovation and use of mobile technologies in the health care field. As such, we address existing policies from the federal government, development guidelines from the mobile industry, and ethical guidelines from the American Psychological Association that apply to the development of mHealth apps intended for psychological use. Privacy and confidentiality are of primary concerns when developing and using mHealth apps for the purpose of research, assessment, and ongoing therapy. Specifically, the use of app notifications and widgets can put app user's privacy at risk unless used properly. Methods in which app developers and providers can safeguard against violations of privacy and confidentiality are examined. In addition, special considerations are made for the use of apps with inpatient and rural populations and for those with cognitive impairments. This discussion serves to inform those who develop and utilize mHealth apps of the ethical guidelines that should be followed when creating and using such apps.
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