Google Set To Delete Billions Of Private Browsing Records In Privacy Lawsuit Settlement.
Google is set to delete billions of data records on users’ private browsing activities as part of a settlement resolving a major privacy lawsuit, as revealed in court filings on April 1. The proposed settlement includes sweeping changes like blocking third-party cookie tracking on Chrome browser’s incognito mode.
The lawsuit against Google, initiated in June 2020, alleged that the tech giant illegally invaded the privacy of millions of users by tracking their internet use and browsing habits, even in “private” browsing modes like Incognito in Chrome. The plaintiffs argued that Google was collecting data about sites visited, browsing locations, and personal information while users thought they were browsing anonymously, seeking at least $5 billion in damages.
Throughout the legal battle, Google maintained that it never associated any data with individual users in Incognito mode or used it for personalized ads or recommendations. Despite originally seeking $5 billion in damages, the plaintiffs are set to receive zero payouts under the settlement.
As part of the settlement, Google will delete billions of data records reflecting private browsing activities and block third-party tracking cookies by default in Incognito mode. These changes mark a significant privacy shift for Google and tighter restrictions on advertising data collection during private browsing sessions.
The settlement terms were revealed in April 2024 filings, stating that users will not receive damages as part of the settlement but may still sue for damages individually. A hearing is expected on July 30 to negotiate the settlement’s approval.
One of the key aspects of the settlement is Google’s commitment to blocking third-party tracking cookies by default in Incognito mode for the next five years. This move is part of wider efforts to phase out third-party cookies over privacy concerns, with Google previously announcing plans to eliminate them from Chrome within two years, albeit with delays.
