Anyone who uses Google has likely noticed the Web giant’s efforts to notify users of big changes in its privacy policy, and many of these people will surely click their way through the information just so the pop-ups will stop coming.
That’s all fine and good, and Google has made the new Privacy Policy Data Collection comparatively easy to understand for those who choose to read it, but the truth is that the entire issue is mislabeled because when people think “privacy” they probably aren’t considering one of the primary functions of the policy – to allow Google to combine personal information across its many products and services, package it and use it at their discretion.
There is no question this type of data collection would create an incredibly large and valuable cache of information. Google reps insist it will largely impact only users with Google Accounts and is designed to make their Web experiences more streamlined and intuitive. And, for those with no concerns about data sharing the new changes will undoubtedly create a more dynamic, personalized Internet interface.
Many critics and Congress, however, disagree on the issue of the policy’s transparency and motive. The U.S. government has increased its scrutiny of the company, alleging that the new policy does not make it clear enough to users how to opt out of data collection, or how their search actions are being tracked.
The European Union (E.U.) went one step further, asking Google to delay the rollout of its changes so that it may ensure the policy comports with E.U. data collection and privacy laws. Google dismissed the request, noting that any delay would require costly reorganization of its schedule and confuse the majority of users who are already prepared for the switch.
A less publicized but far more important issue regarding Google’s new policy is contained in the “Information Sharing” portion that outlines the company’s position regarding providing information to government entities that request it. Essentially, the policy states that Google will not require a warrant if it deems the release of information “reasonably necessary” to satisfy an “enforceable government request.”
Privacy advocates argue that the wording does not convey what should be a very strict prohibition against sharing personal information in this manner. This and other concerns have prompted many to call for a boycott of the search engine, and instead use an alternate search tool like Bing, DuckDuckGo or Blekko.
James Madeiros writes for Sparkplug Digital, a Seattle SEO company delivering online marketing strategy and execution for tech companies, startups, and non-profits.
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Although I do trust the intentions on Google to provide us with a better user experience while looking for content on the web, I do find the following part of your article quite unsettling.
Google will not require a warrant if it deems the release of information “reasonably necessary” to satisfy an “enforceable government request.”
I can understand Troy, There are a lot of people who are unhappy about this. Bloggers all over the world, not just bloggers, people who use Google and its products are joining hands to revolt against Google’s decision.
Google are making it easier for people to understand the privacy policy instead of having individual policies for each software. This way when we read the policy we know it applies to nearly all of there products instead of reading individual ones. Also they are just using the data they already have and using it in other products i.e. Google searches will be can be used in YouTube and if you actually do more research you will find that you can actually opt of a few things.
Edward, that is correct. But its not fair for people using only selective products. As the policy might be unfair and might not apply to the product used.
The best way to beat these guys at facebook and Google and other alike is to never ever reveal your true identity anywhere on the internet. I do that. I even go ahead take more steps to protect my privacy and that of my friends and family by keeping separate online identities for work, family, pleasure, private, etc and never mix them. Always give stupid names, addresses and DoBs. Never mention people you know in your personal life on any public site.
I know you all love Google and Gmail, but I would like to say a kind word for Hotmail here. I’ve been reasonably content with Microsoft products for years, MS Office in particular. I like being able to store files on SkyDrive. Internet Explorer works fine. The much-maligned Bing search engine does a couple of things better than Google and I have never lost access to my Hotmail account. If Microsoft is stalking my data, at least they’re being discreet about using it.
Nice info Eddie. Thank for this details article.
~ Amit Shaw