Italy Investigates Google Over Personal Data Practices

Italy's antitrust agency has initiated an investigation into Google and its parent company Alphabet for alleged unfair commercial practices related to user data. The agency claims Google's user consent requests for its various services may mislead users and limit their freedom of choice regarding personal data usage.

Italy's antitrust agency announced Thursday it has launched an investigation into online search giant Google and its parent company, Alphabet, over alleged unfair commercial practices involving users' personal data.

The watchdog stated that Google's consent request for its multiple services could constitute a 'misleading and aggressive commercial practice.' It noted that the information provided to users is 'incomplete and misleading,' failing to clarify the impact of their consent on the use of personal data.

Google offers a wide range of online tools, including YouTube, Gmail, and Maps. The antitrust authority indicated that Google presents its consent request in a manner that could restrict user choice, compelling them to agree to combined data usage across different Google services.

A Google spokesperson declined to comment. Italian legislation stipulates that companies breaching consumer rights may face fines ranging from 5,000 euros to 10 million euros.

(With inputs from agencies.)