Security News > 2020 > May > Google Location Tracking Lambasted in Arizona Lawsuit

Google has been hit by a lawsuit alleging that it violates user privacy by collecting location data via various means - and claiming that Google makes it nearly "Impossible" for users to opt out of such data tracking.

The lawsuit, filed by Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich, alleges that Google uses "Deceptive and unfair conduct" to obtain Android users' location data via various applications, services and technologies, which is then used for advertising purposes.

The report alleged that Google would track users' data even when they opt out of Google's Location History feature, which collects data in order to personalize Google Maps.

The redacted, public complaint claims that Google uses other means to bring in location data - including via Wi-Fi scanning and connectivity, diagnostic data and information from Google apps in "Recent versions of Android." This makes it impractical - and even impossible - for users to opt out of location tracking, the lawsuit alleges.

The Arizona Attorney General lawsuit did not clarify how much in damages it is seeking from Google, only saying: "Arizona brings this action to put a stop to Google's deceptive and unfair acts and practices; force Google to disgorge all profits, gains, gross receipts, and other benefits obtained for the period of time when it engaged in any unlawful practice; recover restitution for Arizona consumers; and impose civil penalties for Google's willful violations of the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act.".

News URL

https://threatpost.com/google-location-tracking-arizona-lawsuit/156082/