Google Slapped with $463M Fine Over Location Data Handling

Google has been fined €403 million (approximately $463 million) by Ireland's Data Protection Commission for its handling of users' location data. The fine follows a six-year investigation into how Google processes location information, sparked by complaints from seven European consumer organizations.

The inquiry found that Google had breached the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) on multiple fronts. Specifically, it was found that the company's 'Web & App Activity', 'Location History', and 'Location Accuracy' features did not comply with GDPR requirements.

Graham Doyle, deputy commissioner at the DPC, stated that location data can reveal sensitive details about an individual, including their health conditions, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs. He emphasized that users may be unaware of how their location is being used to influence them with ads or infer information about their interests.

The DPC has ordered Google to bring its data processing into compliance with GDPR within six months. The fine ranks as the fourth-largest issued by the Irish regulator, behind fines against Meta, TikTok, and Instagram.