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Google Settlement Regarding Incognito Mode Changes
Google has reached an agreement to modify the Incognito mode on its web browser after facing accusations of misleading users about data privacy. The settlement, resulting from a lawsuit, also entails the deletion of a significant amount of data related to users’ private browsing history.
Origin of the Lawsuit and Allegations
The class-action lawsuit was initially filed in a California federal court back in 2020. It alleged that Google did not adequately inform users about the extent of data tracking that occurred when utilizing the private browsing feature, known as Incognito, on Google’s web browser.
According to court documents, Google employees expressed concerns to management as early as 2013, emphasizing the need to simplify the Incognito splash page to prevent users from drawing inaccurate conclusions. In 2019, Google’s Chief Marketing Officer raised further alarms about the vague language surrounding the Incognito mode, labeling it as potentially harmful.
Details of the Settlement
Although Google agreed to the settlement in December, the specifics of the resolution came to light through court filings on Monday. As per the agreement, Google will implement clearer disclosures on the Incognito splash page regarding data collection practices. It will explicitly state that data is collected from Incognito users and that billions of data records are subsequently deleted.
Furthermore, Google will offer users the ability to block third-party cookies while using Incognito mode for the next five years. This move aims to enhance user control over their browsing experience and privacy settings.
Legal representatives for the plaintiffs hailed the settlement as a significant step towards holding tech giants accountable for transparent data practices. They highlighted the importance of truthful representations to users about data collection processes and emphasized the need to delete unnecessary data collected by companies.
A spokesperson for Google, José Castañeda, refuted the allegations of associating data with individual users during Incognito mode usage. He clarified that the company’s actions are aimed at removing technical data that was never linked to specific individuals and never utilized for personalization purposes.
Overall, the settlement signifies a milestone in promoting transparency and accountability in the tech industry, particularly regarding data privacy practices. It underscores the importance of clear communication to users and proactive measures to protect user data.
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