HIPAA only covers health care providers who bill for services, such as a doctor’s office or insurance. But there might be other laws that apply.

> Why wouldn't HIV status be protected by HIPAA?

Because Grindr is not a healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, hospital, etc.) or a health insurer. HIPAA doesn't apply to social networks, or otherwise (e.g.) Twitter would be liable if you wrote a post announcing your own HIV status on their service.

It depends on entity that's sharing being a "covered" entity.