Texas has reached a $1.375 billion settlement with Google over data privacy concerns. The settlement addresses two lawsuits related to the tech giant’s tracking of users’ personal data. These lawsuits involve three of Google’s products and allegations of violating Texas consumer protection laws.
Details of the Settlement
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the settlement on Friday. The $1.375 billion agreement resolves claims that Google unlawfully collected sensitive data from users. These claims are part of two lawsuits filed against the company for violating privacy laws in Texas.
Paxton emphasized that no company is above the law, even tech giants like Google. He stated that Google tracked users’ movements, private searches, and even their voiceprints and facial geometry without their knowledge.
Google’s Response to the Settlement
Google has responded to the settlement. A spokesperson, José Castañeda, noted that the claims are related to older issues, many of which have been addressed in other cases. Google also assured that product policies related to these issues had already been changed. The company expressed relief at resolving these claims and emphasized its commitment to improving privacy controls.
The company, however, did not announce any immediate changes to its products. The settlement does not require Google to alter its services at this time.
Lawsuits and Allegations
The lawsuits filed by Paxton in 2022 accused Google of collecting biometric data, including voiceprints and facial geometry, without consent. The lawsuits also alleged that Google continued tracking users’ locations, even after they disabled location services on their devices.
Another key issue was Google’s Incognito mode. Paxton argued that the feature misled users into believing their browsing activity was private, when in fact, Google still collected certain data during browsing sessions.
Similar Cases Involving Other Tech Giants
This settlement is part of a broader trend of legal actions against major tech companies. Last year, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, paid $1.4 billion to settle similar claims. Meta was accused of collecting and using facial recognition data without user consent.
These settlements reflect growing concerns about how tech companies handle user data. Paxton’s office has played a central role in holding tech giants accountable for privacy violations.
Impact on Data Privacy in Texas and Beyond
The $1.38 billion settlement marks one of the largest data privacy settlements in recent years. It highlights the growing importance of strong privacy laws. It also underscores the need for tech companies to be transparent about their data collection practices.
Texas has become a key battleground for data privacy legal actions. Paxton’s efforts have sent a clear message that tech companies must follow the law. The settlement with Google further demonstrates the state’s commitment to holding tech giants accountable.
What Comes Next?
Although the settlement resolves some legal disputes, the issue of data privacy is far from over. Consumers are increasingly aware of how their personal information is collected. There is growing demand for stronger privacy protections.
As more states and countries implement stricter data privacy laws, companies like Google will face increasing pressure. It remains to be seen whether these legal actions will bring significant changes to the way tech companies handle user data.
