Google settlement does nothing to quash rumours it’s listening to users

Google recently settled a class action lawsuit for $68 million, alleging the company was listening to user conversations through Google Assistant and sharing that information with advertisers. While Google maintains it does not record conversations unless triggered by “Hey Google,” the lawsuit claimed accidental activations led to unintended data collection. Instead of defending the claim in court, Google opted for a settlement, a move critics argue tacitly admits wrongdoing and will likely exacerbate existing fears about privacy.

Claimants in the class action lawsuit, which includes US Android users since May 2016, are expected to receive minimal compensation after legal fees are deducted. This settlement follows a similar case resolved by Apple earlier in the year. The core issue remains unresolved: whether Big Tech companies are actively listening to user conversations for targeted advertising purposes.

Despite denials from tech firms, many users report experiencing targeted ads related to recent real-life conversations, fueling speculation. Without a whistleblower or definitive proof, these concerns are likely to persist, and companies appear willing to settle such claims rather than risk a potentially damaging trial, relying on their scale to absorb the financial impact.

(Source：Hypertext)