Google ordered to pay 5 million for violating the privacy of millions of users.
Google Inc., a leading technology company in the United States, has been ordered by a jury in San Francisco to pay 5 million in damages for purported violations of user privacy. This decision arises from allegations that the tech giant continued to collect data from third-party applications despite numerous users opting out of such tracking features.
The ruling, issued on September 4, 2025, highlights significant concerns regarding data privacy and user consent. A group of plaintiffs alleged that Google’s actions contradicted privacy assurances embedded within its Web & App Activity settings. The lawsuit, initiated in July 2020, encompassed approximately 98 million Google users, reflecting a widespread sentiment about the need for greater transparency and control over personal data.
In response to the verdict, Google expressed its intention to appeal, arguing that the jury’s decision misinterpreted the functionality of its products. The company maintains that its privacy management tools empower users by allowing them to control their data usage effectively. A representative for Google, Jose Castaneda, asserted that the company’s policies respect user choices, emphasizing, “Our privacy tools give people control over their data, and when they turn off personalization, we honor that choice.”
Throughout the trial, Google contended that the data collected from users was non-personal and stored in secure environments, designed to protect user information. It is worth noting that Google has faced multiple privacy-related lawsuits recently, reflecting a broader scrutiny of tech companies’ data management practices. Notably, in May, Google agreed to pay .375 billion to the state of Texas for similar allegations, including the unauthorized collection of residents’ biometric data and persistent location tracking even when users opted out.
This latest case underscores the growing challenges that major technology firms encounter regarding user privacy and data protection, as public awareness and legal frameworks evolve to reflect the digital age’s complexities. The commitment to respect user privacy is becoming an increasingly critical aspect of maintaining consumer trust in technology products and services.
In a landscape where users are more informed about their digital footprint, the decisions made by courts may have far-reaching implications for the tech industry and consumer rights. Whether Google succeeds in its appeal remains to be seen, but the company’s ongoing commitment to resolving privacy concerns could play a significant role in shaping future practices in the technology sector.
#TechnologyNews #WorldNews
