Google under scanner in UK over privacy policy

London, July 6 – The UK authorities have reportedly criticized search engine site Google for its privacy policies and have warned the site of 'enforcement actions' if the policies are not reformed.

 

The Information Commissioner's Officer (ICO) believes that Google policies do not comply with the UK Data Protection Act and does not make it clear how the user data is used across all its products, BBC reports.

 

According to the report, other European data authorities have made similar complaints against Google. ICO spokesperson said that Google must amend the policy before 20 September or face the 'possibility of formal enforcement action.'

 

The report said that ICO in a co-ordinated effort with other 27 European authorities has sent the letter to Google questioning its policies and asking for reforms.

Meanwhile, Google said that its privacy policy respects European law and allows the company to create simpler, more effective services adding that the company has engaged fully with the authorities involved in the process and it will continue to do this forward.

 

The ICO has ordered Google to destroy all relevant data disks before the end of July or be deemed in contempt of court, the report added.

 

TOI