Google to Pay $135M for Android Data Collection
▼ Summary
– Google has agreed to a $135 million settlement over a class-action lawsuit alleging it collected Android users’ cellular data without permission under specific conditions.
– Eligible class members, who used an Android device as early as November 12, 2017, could receive a recovery payout of up to $100 each.
– As part of the settlement, Google will make it easier for users to stop cellular data transfers and will seek consent for data transfers during device setup.
– Google has denied any wrongdoing related to the lawsuit despite agreeing to the settlement.
– This settlement follows another recent agreement by Google in a separate class-action lawsuit regarding its Assistant allegedly recording users without permission.
A proposed settlement filed in California could see Google paying out millions to Android users, with individuals potentially receiving up to one hundred dollars each. The agreement, totaling one hundred thirty-five million dollars, addresses a class action lawsuit alleging the tech giant collected cellular data without proper user consent. The claims state this data gathering occurred even when Google applications were not in use, location services were disabled, and devices were locked.
Beyond the financial compensation, the settlement mandates several changes to Google’s practices. The company has committed to simplifying the process for users to halt cellular data transfers. It will also be required to seek explicit user consent for data transfers during the initial setup of a device and to clearly disclose these data practices within its Google Play Terms of Service. These adjustments aim to provide greater transparency and control over how personal information is handled.
Eligibility for a payout under this settlement is broad, encompassing anyone who used an Android mobile device on or after November 12, 2017. It is important to note that while Google has agreed to the settlement terms, the company has denied any wrongdoing associated with the lawsuit’s allegations. This resolution follows another recent settlement where Google addressed claims its Assistant feature recorded users without their permission, indicating a pattern of legal challenges surrounding data privacy practices.
The outcome highlights ongoing scrutiny of major technology firms and their data collection methods. For consumers, it underscores the importance of understanding the privacy settings and terms of service associated with their devices and applications. The court must still grant final approval to the settlement before any payments are distributed to eligible class members.
(Source: The Verge)
