They might be the sharpest tool in the shed, but that doesn’t change the fact how human beings have a very clear tendency to make mistakes. This has already been proven quite a few times throughout our history, with each testimony practically forcing us to look for a defensive cover. We will, on our part, find the stated cover once we bring dedicated regulatory bodies into the fold. Having a well-defined authority across each and area was a game-changer, as it instantly gave us a safety cushion against our many flaws. Now, while the utopia to emerge from the stated dynamic was significant, it couldn’t survive the test of time. Talk about why that was the case, technology really deserves the ultimate blame here. You see, the moment technology got its layered nature to take over the scene, it allowed everyone an unprecedented shot at exploiting others for their own benefit. In case this wasn’t bad enough, the whole runner soon started to materialize on such a massive scale that it expectantly overwhelmed our governing forces and sent them back to the drawing board. After a lengthy spell in the wilderness, though, it seems like the regulatory contingent is finally ready to make a comeback. The same has become increasingly apparent over the recent past, and a settlement involving Google only puts that on full display.
Google has officially agreed to pay Arizona a sum of $85 million to settle a lawsuit, which accused the company of illegally tracking Android users. Filed back in 2020 by Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich, the lawsuit dug into how Google would allegedly integrate “dark patterns” into its software, patterns that allow the company to track the user’s location, even if they have their location sharing turned off. The tech behemoth, according to Brnovich, then uses the stated information to fuel those infamous advertising efforts that have lately come under a lot of scrutiny. As for when Arizona’s dogfight against Google actually started, it all kicked off with a report from The Associated Press. This particular report dished out extensive details in regards to company’s deceptive practices that included harvesting personal data through various day-to-day services like Google Maps, weather updates, and browser searches. Looking from a holistic standpoint, what started out as a sensational revelation would go on to become one of the largest settlements paid by Google per capita in a consumer fraud lawsuit.
“When I was elected attorney general, I promised Arizonans I would fight for them and hold everyone, including corporations like Google, accountable,” Brnovich said in a statement. “I am proud of this historic settlement that proves no entity, not even big tech companies, is above the law.”
Interestingly, despite agreeing to pay, Google continues to deny all the allegations, arguing that the case was centered upon outdated product policies.
“We provide straightforward controls and auto delete options for location data, and are always working to minimize the data we collect,” said Jose Castañeda, Google spokesperson. “We are pleased to have this matter resolved and will continue to focus our attention on providing useful products for our users.”
