Is Google Location Data Approved by IRDAI for Health Claim Verification?

The use of Google location data to deny a health insurance claim has raised serious privacy and legal concerns. A growing number of Indian consumers are questioning whether insurers are allowed to track personal GPS data or Google timelines to verify claims. Here’s a closer look at what IRDAI regulations really say on this matter.

Health Claim Rejected Using Google Timeline: What Happened?

As per news reports, a policyholder, Vallabh Motka, had his ₹48,251 claim rejected by Go Digit General Insurance after they found no record of his hospital visit on his Google timeline while he was supposedly admitted. The insurer stated they had the policyholder’s consent and used the data as part of a wider investigation, which also found discrepancies in hospital records and billing details.

Is Location Data Use Authorised by IRDAI?

IRDAI regulations, including the Health Insurance Regulations, 2016, and consumer guidelines, do not mention the use of geolocation tracking or Google data for claim assessment. Legal experts say insurers cannot use such private data unless there is clear, informed, and documented customer consent in line with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023.

Read More: LIC Launches Special Drive to Revive Lapsed Insurance Policies!

What Are Insurers Legally Allowed to Access for Claim Verification?

Insurers can legally gather hospital records, discharge summaries, electronic medical record logs, and even CCTV timestamps, provided they secure proper approval. Wearable device data and digital payment records may also be considered if clearly stated in the policy and consented to. Social media content in public view does not require permission.

Grey Areas in Regulation Leave Policyholders at Risk

Given the silence of IRDAI on GPS tracking, insurers may exploit this regulatory grey zone. However, any use of such data must not override authenticated medical documentation. Raw Google data, without digital certification as per legal standards, is not admissible as conclusive evidence in claims rejection.

Conclusion

While Go Digit claims it acted within legal bounds, IRDAI has not officially approved the use of Google Timeline for claims verification. Claims should primarily rely on medical evidence, and any use of private digital data must be clearly stated in policy terms and backed by firm consent, protecting policyholders from invasive practices.

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