The logo of Google is seen at the 2023 Hannover Messe industrial trade fair on April 17, 2023 in Hanover, Germany. Over 4,000 companies, primarily from the energy and engineering sectors, are exhibiting at the fair, with an emphasis on digitalization, connectivity and climate neutrality. Alexander Koerner/Getty Images
Italy's antitrust agency has launched an investigation into Google and its parent company Alphabet over allegations of unfair commercial practices concerning user personal data, Reuters reported.
The probe centers on how Google asks users for permission to combine their personal data across different services like YouTube, Gmail, and Maps.
The watchdog suggests that Google's methods might not clearly explain to users the full extent of how their data will be used, which could lead users to agree to a massive data sharing than they realize, thus limiting their ability to freely choose how their data is utilized.
In response to the investigation, Google has pledged cooperation with Italian authorities. The company expressed readiness to analyze the specifics of the case and work collaboratively with the antitrust agency to address any concerns raised.
Under Italian legislation, companies found in breach of consumer rights regulations face fines, ranging from 5,000 euros ($5,400) to 10 million euros ($10.9 million), depending on the severity of the violations. These penalties are imposed to ensure compliance with fair commercial practices and to protect consumer interests against unfair business behaviors.
The outcome of the investigation will likely have implications not only for Google's operations in Italy but also for how other tech giants approach data privacy and user consent across the European Union.
At the moment, Italy's antitrust agency is likely not targeting only Google in its investigations into data privacy practices among tech giants. Companies like Facebook (Meta), Amazon, Apple, and others that provide extensive digital services and handle large amounts of user data are also subject to scrutiny.
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