Hey tech fam! Big news on the privacy front: Google has agreed to pay a whopping $1.4 billion to Texas to settle claims of collecting user data without permission. 🔒
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton stated that the settlement addresses allegations that Google secretly tracked movements, private searches, and even biometric details like voiceprints and facial geometry through services such as Google Photos and Google Assistant. In his words, no tech giant is above the law when it comes to protecting our digital rights.
Google responded by noting that this agreement resolves several older claims, with many of the contested policies already updated. The settlement also confirms that no further changes will be made to its current products or services.
This development is a reminder of the growing scrutiny over digital privacy, especially as similar cases have made headlines—like the $700 million settlement earlier this year and Meta Platforms' $1.4 billion payout in a related case. It's a clear call for all of us to keep an eye on how our data is used in our fast-paced, tech-driven lives. 💡
Stay savvy and informed, because in a digital world, privacy is power!
Reference(s):
Google to pay Texas $1.4 billion to settle data privacy claims
cgtn.com
