Tech Security & Privacy remains under the spotlight as a US jury orders Google to pay $425 million. The verdict follows findings that Google collected user data even after users disabled tracking via Web & App Activity settings.
Key verdict
A California federal jury ruled that Google breached user privacy by tracking millions of users after they turned off tracking.
Scope of the case
The lawsuit covers about 98 million Google users and 174 million devices. Users had opted out of data collection via Web & App Activity.
Damages awarded
Google must pay approx. $425 million in compensatory damages. The jury found Google liable on two of three privacy claims.
Google response
Google says the verdict misunderstands how its products work. It claims its tools respect privacy settings and that data collected is “nonpersonal” or “pseudonymous.”
Wider impact
The case highlights rising concerns over how tech giants handle sensitive user information. Analysts say this could set a precedent for stricter data-privacy regulations worldwide.
Market reaction
Despite the lawsuit, Alphabet shares jumped more than 9% after a judge ruled the company can keep Chrome but must share search data with competitors, easing investor worries.
