Google has agreed to pay $1.375 billion to Texas to settle allegations of tracking users’ location, internet activity, and biometric data without proper consent. This settlement addresses multiple privacy violations despite Google’s claims of policy updates.
Affected: Google, users in Texas and other states
Affected: Google, users in Texas and other states
Keypoints
- Google faced legal actions for tracking users even with location features disabled and in private browsing mode.
- Users’ geolocation and online activities were allegedly used for targeted advertising and profit.
- Google was accused of collecting biometric data, such as voiceprints and facial geometry, without informed consent.
- The lawsuit was amended to include claims about private browsing mode, which was claimed to be ineffective.
- Google has updated its products and policies to address these privacy concerns.
- The settlement amount is $1.375 billion, with Google denying any wrongdoing or liability.
- The case is part of broader privacy enforcement actions, including settlements with companies like Meta and AT&T.
Read More: https://www.securityweek.com/google-agrees-to-1-3-billion-settlement-in-texas-privacy-lawsuits/