Google and privacy: Make no mistake
Google admitted today that they have been collecting data from unencrypted private WiFi networks using their StreetView cars, thereby violating privacy laws in Germany (and I would assume also in other countries). Although Google says that this was a mistake it suggests that not even Google is on top of all the data they are collecting. Furthermore, Google's obsession to collect data is likely to continue to test privacy laws. If your government sent cars through your street to photograph your front garden and register details about your home network, then link your Mac address to your internet searches, I wonder how people would react. But since it's Google I am sure we will be OK.
See previous post for more.
"Nothing new under the sun!"
Nobody should have an illusion that they are "clean"! The question is: What does it means for each person?
Criminal charges in the EU
Several European countries are now considering criminal charges against Google for illegally collecting user data from unencrypted WiFi networks. Google said that they will destroy the illegal data although EU authorities are asking them to turn over the data to verify Google's statement and use the collected data as evidence in a possible trial. So far Google refuses to comply.
Google only admitted that they wrongfully collected private data when asked by German data-protection officials to audit the WiFi data. Google claims that they collected the private data over the last three years "by mistake", unaware that they were doing so until challenged. Now they refuse to cooperate with EU authorities. This is not the first time they do this. What else do they have to do to earn people's mistrust?
For those who feel a bit uneasy about Google and are looking for an alternative search engine, here is one that promises complete privacy: http://www.ixquick.com/