Google Faces Multi-Billion Kroner Fine Over Incognito Mode Privacy
Technology giant Google could face a fine of up to 51 billion Norwegian kroner amid allegations that its Chrome browser's incognito mode is not completely private.
Jordan Taylor
- 2023-12-29
- Updated 09:22 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - In a class-action lawsuit that has been unfolding slowly in California, Google has been accused of collecting data on users' browsing activities even when they are using the so-called "incognito" mode of its popular Chrome web browser. The case took a significant turn in August when Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers decided against dismissing the lawsuit. Plaintiffs have raised concerns that Google, through services like Google Analytics, Google Ad Manager, and various other extensions and mobile apps, has been able to track users' shopping habits and other private matters without their consent.
Google's Defense
Google has consistently defended its position, stating users are informed that their activity may be visible to the websites they visit even while in incognito mode. The tech company clarified that the purpose of incognito mode in Chrome is to enable browsing without saving the user's activity in the browser or device. However, they recognized that this does not prevent external sites from collecting information on browsing habits.
Towards Settlement
As the legal proceedings drag on, Google has expressed a readiness to reach a settlement that may involve paying out billions in fines. While the exact settlement amount has yet to be disclosed, Google is scheduled to present its settlement plan documentation in January. The final decision by the court on the proposed settlement is expected by the end of February in the following year, potentially drawing the long-standing privacy dispute to a close.
The outcome of this case is closely observed by privacy advocates and tech industry stakeholders, as it could set a significant precedent for how tech companies manage user data and disclose their data collection practices in a world where digital privacy concerns are increasingly taking center stage.
