Italy investigates Google over alleged unfair data usage
Italy’s antitrust agency investigates Google over alleged unfair data usage for commercial practices.
Italy’s antitrust authority launched an investigation against Google and its parent company, Alphabet, over alleged unfair practices related to personal data usage. The watchdog claims that Google’s request for user consent to connect its various services “could be misleading and aggressive commercial practice,” failing to explain how it impacts personal data use adequately.
Google, which offers services such as YouTube, Gmail, and Maps, is accused of presenting consent requests in a way that restricts users’ freedom of choice. The antitrust authority argues that users might be pressured into agreeing to the combined use of personal data across different Google services.
A Google spokesperson stated that the company will examine the details and cooperate with the authorities. Companies found to breach consumer rights in Italy face fines ranging from £5,000 to £10 million.
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