Why Google is in deep trouble for tracking your ‘dark patterns’
Big tech is watching you
The accusations against Google
Racine and his colleagues fromIndiana, Texas, and Washington accuse Google of manipulating users to access location data.
This data is then used to builddetailed user-profiles and sell highly targeted advertising.
The AGs argue that the search giant makes it “nearly impossible” for users to stop their location from being tracked.
Their three-year investigation followsa 2018 report by the Associated Press, which revealed that Google “records your movements even when you explicitly tell it not to.”
Google claims that changing device and account settings can protect your data. However, the AGs maintain that the company systematically surveils users no matter what settings they choose.
They say this snooping is applied to bothAndroidsmartphones and other devices running services including GoogleSearch, Google Maps, and Google Photos.
Dark patterns
A central complaint is that Google relies on “dark patterns” to undermine consumers’ informed choices.
This involves using deceptive design choices that alter people’s decision-making in ways that harm the user and benefit Google.
These tactics includerepeatedly prompting users to enable location in certain apps, and claiming products won’t function properly without enabling location.
The AGs also accuse Google of the following:
In a statement, Google spokesperson José Castañeda said the accusations are based on “inaccurate claims and outdated assertions” about the company’s settings:
Google’s location tracking future
The new lawsuits follow similar causes inAustraliaandArizona.
The complaints note that location data is very sensitive for users. Just a smallamount can expose a person’s identity and routines. It can also be used to infer personal details.
The new lawsuits seek to fine Google and endthe company’s “deceptive and unlawful practices.”
Racine, the AG leading the campaign, ultimately wants to shift control over data use from Google to consumers.
He’ll have a fight on his hands: location data is a key part of Google’s digital advertising business, which generated nearly $150 billion in revenue in 2020 alone.
Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.
Get the TNW newsletter
Get the most important tech news in your inbox each week.
