Google agrees to $135 million settlement for collecting Android users’ data
Google will pay $135 million to settle a lawsuit alleging it collected Android users’ data without consent.Summary
Google has agreed to a $135 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of collecting Android users’ cellular data without their permission. The lawsuit claimed Google continued data collection even when apps were closed, location sharing was disabled, and devices were locked. Eligible class members, those who used an Android device between November 12th, 2017, and the settlement date, could receive up to $100 each.
Beyond the financial payout, Google has committed to improving user control over data transfers. This includes making it easier to stop cellular data transfers, requesting consent during device setup, and clearly disclosing data transfers in its Google Play terms of service.
Google maintains it did not engage in wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to resolve the dispute. This settlement follows a similar agreement Google reached regarding its Assistant recording users without permission, indicating a broader effort to address privacy concerns.
(Source：The Verge)