Google will pay a US$135 million (roughly C$184 million) to settle a class action by smartphone users who accused the Mountain View, California company of programming Android to collect their cellular data without permission.
The preliminary settlement was filed on Tuesday in the San Jose, California, federal court.
Google has denied any wrongdoing. But according to the lawsuit, Google programmed Android to automatically collect data via carriers and not let users opt out. Additionally, the lawsuit says that even when users disable location tracking or close apps
“We are pleased to resolve this case, which mischaracterized standard industry practices that keep Android safe. We’re providing additional disclosures to give people more information about how our services work,” said Google spokesperson José Castañeda to CNET.
Once the judge approves of the settlement, they will need to confirm the time frame, payment method and the other details. But payments would be capped at US$100 (about C$137) per person. And if you didn’t sign up for the class action ahead of time, you’re not likely to get any money.
Recently, Google also agreed to pay a US$68 million (roughly C$92.25 million) to settle a lawsuit regarding secretly listening to people’s private conversations through their handsets. This lawsuit accused Google Assistant of recording private conversations.
Source: Reuters
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