Imagine that when you turn off the GPS, you believe you have removed Google’s scrutinizing gaze and stopped them from recording every single step you take. Think again. This is the naked truth that was exposed by a special investigation conducted by the Associated Press in early 2018, and as a result, a $62 million settlement was recently obtained against Google.
Here’s the shocking thing: Google claimed that turning off Location History would limit the tracking of people’s geographic data. Interestingly, it was a hoax! Google continued to collect location information using its apps and solid services. Additionally, all online activities – from maps to weather – are also done through the mobile browser available on your phone. In short, of course, any Google-related action traces your location, whether your settings are set to private or public.
The defendant catalogs the use of this statement and believes it is a “misrepresentation” of facts and violates the California Privacy Act. Alphabet Inc. will give $62 million, with more than half of the donations targeted at nonprofits working to protect Internet users’ privacy. This high amount reflects the seriousness of the misdeed – Google managed to deceive users and eliminate their privacy choices, which is also an indicator of the need to impose a fine.
There is a ray of hope. Such an example could motivate Google to pursue reforms and establish greater user control and data openness. Imagine a future world where you are in control of your location data and know how it is being used. This lawsuit may force Google to take necessary measures to deal with it.
