FTC fines marketers of two apps that claim to detect melanoma

The Federal Trade Commission announced two enforcement actions against the makers of two smartphone apps -- "Mole Detective" and "MelApp" -- that claim to be able to detect the symptoms of melanoma simply by snapping a picture of a mole with a smartphone. The apps were downloaded by thousands of people and claimed to be able to calculate melanoma risk as high, medium or low by analyzing the pictures. The apps were on the market from 2011 to 2012, and cost as much as $4.99 to purchase.

Both apps did suggest that users should see a physician if they had real concerns. But Mary Engle, the FTC's associate director for advertising practices, said that the app advertisements gave an overall impression that they could be used as diagnosis tools. Marketers for both apps have agreed to settlements with the agency that prevent them from claiming that the apps can accurately detect or diagnose symptoms of melanoma. The company behind MelApp's marketing, Health Discovery Corp., will pay $17,063 as part of its settlement. Mole Detective's developer and original marketer, New Consumer Solutions, will pay $3,930; the agency is pursuing a judgment against a separate, British marketing firm -- L. Health Ltd. -- which did not elect to settle with the FTC.