View all newsletters
Receive our newsletter - data, insights and analysis delivered to you
  1. Technology
  2. Cybersecurity
October 9, 2012

Google may face EU charges for breaching privacy laws

Earlier this year, Google combined and merged existing privacy policies from its various services

By CBR Staff Writer

Google might have to face charges from European data protection commissioners within days after unilaterally changing privacy policies in March this year.

The Guardian reports that a group of 30 data protection commissioners from across the European Union are believed to have determined that Google has breached EU privacy laws.

Earlier this year, the search engine allegedly combined and merged existing privacy policies from various Google services including its search engine, YouTube and Google+.

Google’s privacy policy enables the company to use data from its products to improve user experience.

The search engine could make recommendations on YouTube videos based on things users have searched on it and can target advertiser to personalise search outcomes.

After the introduction of Google+, the search engine tried to merge its various products into one core Google product.

Microsoft may be fined heavily for its failure to include a crucial update in the latest version of Windows which provided European consumers a choice of browser.

Content from our partners
How businesses can safeguard themselves on the cyber frontline
How hackers’ tactics are evolving in an increasingly complex landscape
Green for go: Transforming trade in the UK

EU Competition Commissioner Joaquin Almunia said: "In the information and communication industries, our work with Google is proceeding; whereas we are currently reviewing the case regarding Microsoft’s failure to keep commitments it took back in 2009 and I want to take a decision soon on the next steps."

In early next year, a decision is anticipated to be taken on Microsoft’s breach of antitrust commitments.

Websites in our network
Select and enter your corporate email address Tech Monitor's research, insight and analysis examines the frontiers of digital transformation to help tech leaders navigate the future. Our Changelog newsletter delivers our best work to your inbox every week.
  • CIO
  • CTO
  • CISO
  • CSO
  • CFO
  • CDO
  • CEO
  • Architect Founder
  • MD
  • Director
  • Manager
  • Other
Visit our privacy policy for more information about our services, how New Statesman Media Group may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.
THANK YOU