Google’s paying out $135M to settle Android data harvesting accusations
Google will pay $135 million to settle a class action lawsuit alleging the unauthorized collection of Android users’ cellular data.Summary
Google has agreed to a $135 million settlement in a class action lawsuit accusing the company of “appropriating” Android users’ mobile data without their consent. The suit claimed Google was collecting data over cellular connections, even when apps were closed, and argued this constituted an unlawful taking of users’ purchased data. While Google denies any wrongdoing, the settlement requires them to obtain user consent for data transfers over cellular networks, update the Google Play terms of service to disclose these transfers, and add an opt-out toggle in Android settings.
Eligible users – those in the US (excluding California) who used an Android device with a cellular connection since November 12, 2017 – could receive up to $100 each. This settlement follows a separate agreement to pay $68 million over claims of illegally recorded Google Assistant conversations. Notably, Californian Android users are excluded from this settlement as they are part of a separate class action that awarded over $314 million, though Google is appealing that decision.
(Source：Android Authority)