Google Hit with €403 Million Fine Over Location Data Practices
The Irish Data Protection Commission has fined Google €403 million for violating European regulations on data protection. The tech giant was found to have covertly collected and retained users' location data, often without their knowledge or consent.
The DPC investigation, which began in February 2020, uncovered that Google had been using location data to show users targeted advertisements and determine their interests.
The commission emphasized the importance of transparency and control over personal data, stating that geolocation data can reveal a significant amount of information about an individual, including private details.
Google has been ordered to bring its policies into compliance with European regulations within six months, with a total fine of €403 million imposed for violating the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).