Google pays $5B to settle 'incognito mode' tracking lawsuit. #privacywin #googlelawsuit
  • December 30, 2023 9:45 am
  • Ayush Rawal
  • 0

Google Settles $5 Billion Lawsuit Over Tracking People Using ‘Incognito Mode’

Technology giant Google has reached a $5 billion settlement in a class-action lawsuit that accused the company of unlawfully tracking users’ internet activity while they were using the ‘Incognito Mode’ on the Chrome browser. The lawsuit, which was filed in June 2020, alleged that Google did not inform users that their browsing history was still being tracked despite using the private browsing mode.

The lawsuit claimed that Google collected data through various means, including analytics tools and plug-ins, even when users were browsing in ‘Incognito Mode. This practice violated users’ privacy and the terms of the private browsing feature, which is designed to prevent websites from tracking users’ online activities.

In a statement, Google denied any wrongdoing but agreed to settle the lawsuit to avoid a lengthy and costly legal battle. The settlement amount of $5 billion is said to be one of the largest ever for a privacy-related case.

The settlement also includes a commitment from Google to provide users with more transparency and control over their browsing data. The company has pledged to improve its disclosures about data collection and provide users with more options to opt out of tracking.

This settlement marks a significant development in the ongoing debate over internet privacy and the extent to which tech companies can collect and use personal data. It is also a reminder of the growing scrutiny and legal challenges faced by major technology companies over their data practices.

Privacy advocates and consumer groups have long criticized Google and other tech giants for their data collection practices, saying that they often overstep boundaries and infringe on users’ privacy rights. The settlement in this case could set a precedent for future legal actions against tech companies for similar alleged violations.

Google’s handling of user data has been under scrutiny for years, with the company facing numerous investigations and lawsuits over alleged privacy violations. The $5 billion settlement in this case is a clear indication of the serious consequences that tech companies can face for mishandling user data.

While Google has agreed to settle the lawsuit, the company has not admitted to any wrongdoing. However, the settlement does require Google to make significant changes to its data collection practices, which could have a lasting impact on how the company and other tech giants handle user data.

The settlement also serves as a reminder to internet users to exercise caution and be aware of the privacy implications of their online activities. While ‘Incognito Mode’ and similar features may provide some level of privacy, they are not foolproof and may not fully protect users’ data from being tracked and collected.

It is important for users to be aware of the data collection practices of the websites and services they use, and to take steps to protect their privacy and control their personal information. This includes being mindful of the permissions and settings on their devices and being selective about the websites and apps they use.

In conclusion, Google’s $5 billion settlement in the class-action lawsuit over tracking users in ‘Incognito Mode’ underscores the importance of privacy in the digital age. The settlement is a significant development in the ongoing debate over internet privacy and serves as a reminder to internet users to be mindful of their online activities and take steps to protect their personal data. The settlement also highlights the growing scrutiny and legal challenges faced by major technology companies over their data collection practices, and could set a precedent for future legal actions in this area.

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