New Google default wipes users' location, web history after 18 months

By Paresh Dave

 

FILE PHOTO: The logo of Google is seen in Davos, Switzerland Januar 20, 2020. Picture taken January 20, 2020. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann/File Photo

 

OAKLAND, Calif. (Reuters) - Alphabet Inc's Google said on Wednesday it will automatically delete some location history after 18 months for new users and make it easier for everyone to access its search, Maps and YouTube apps without being tracked.

 

The updates to Google's privacy controls arrive as the world's largest search engine faces heightened scrutiny on its data collection practices. New privacy laws in California and Europe have prompted internet companies to adjust practices over the last two years. Several lawsuits by consumers and U.S. state attorneys general in the last few months have accused Google of deception in data gathering.

 

Under Google's updated settings, YouTube's viewing history of new users will disappear after 36 months and location tracking and web browsing history will get dropped after 18 months. Users have the option of choosing shorter or longer timeframes.

 

However, Google may still be able to access and store location details in other ways.

 

Users can more easily search in what Google calls "incognito mode," by just holding down their profile picture at the top of the search, Maps or YouTube apps. Previously, an additional click in the apps' menu was required.

 

Google does not keep a log of users' activity when they are in incognito.

 

The company derives most of its revenue from ads, which are typically based on data about what users are watching and reading and where they are located. Alphabet Chief Executive Sundar Pichai last year acknowledged that the company gathers more data than necessary for ads and committed to minimize its collection.

 

-- © Copyright Reuters 2020-06-25

 

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Geez, I feel all warm and fuzzy now...

18 months is plenty of history for a skilled online snoop to find pretty much all they need to know about you. Not much comfort there.

Should be a DAILY option with a DELETE button self-activated by users whenever they feel the need.

Too little too late. Data is the new oil - and social media giants have made fortunes selling ours without passing anything on in appreciation This is unethical and unfair.

 

We need new privacy laws limiting rights to our own personal information.  We should be able to decide if it can be passed on and to whom and be entitled to a copyright fee if it is sold.

 

Could be a nice little earner!