Title: Google Settles $5 Billion Lawsuit Over Allegedly Tracking Chrome Users in Incognito Mode
Tech giant Google has reached a settlement in a $5 billion lawsuit that accused it of secretly tracking Chrome users while they were in incognito mode. The terms of the settlement, which have not been disclosed, are expected to be presented to the court for approval by February 24.
The lawsuit was initially filed in 2020 and potentially encompasses millions of users from June 1, 2016, onward. It alleges that Google violated users’ privacy by continuing to track their data even when they were using the incognito mode, which was designed to offer enhanced privacy.
Google has stated that although users may browse in incognito mode, websites can still collect information about their browsing activity. However, the plaintiffs claim that Google collected a significant amount of information, including potentially embarrassing data, which could then be used for targeted advertising.
This lawsuit gained traction after it was not dismissed earlier this year, leading to the settlement. The plaintiffs were seeking damages of at least $5,000 per user for alleged federal wiretapping and California privacy law violations.
Incognito mode is widely used by internet users who want to maintain their privacy while browsing the internet. Chrome’s incognito mode is designed to prevent the browser from storing any cookies, browsing history, or other data related to the user’s online activity.
The allegations against Google have raised concerns about the level of privacy and protection that users can expect while using the company’s products. With the settlement pending approval, it remains to be seen how Google will address these concerns and make amends for any potential violation of users’ privacy.
This case serves as a reminder that even when using incognito mode, users should remain cautious about the information they share online and the websites they visit. Taking additional measures, such as using a virtual private network (VPN) or regularly clearing browsing data, can further enhance the protection of privacy while browsing the internet.
As the settlement hearing approaches, it is anticipated that the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the future of internet privacy and how technology companies handle users’ personal information.
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