Earlier today we told you that Google are facing a multi-state investigation in the US, over the data that was captured from unsecured WiFi networks via their Google Street View cars.
Now it seems that the UK Police are also investigating the matter, and the case has even been given a crime reference number, although that doesn’t mean anyone at Google has committed a crime, that remains to be seen.
Privacy International’s Allegations
The investigation by the Police is in response to complaints from Privacy International, who have alleged that Google carried out “criminal interception of wireless communications content”, and this constitutes a crime under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act and the Wireless Telegraphy Act. Privacy International is a UK-based privacy advocacy group that has been vocal about the potential misuse of personal data by large corporations. They argue that Google’s actions were not just a simple mistake but a significant breach of privacy that could have far-reaching implications.
Privacy International’s concerns are not unfounded. The data captured by Google Street View cars included emails, passwords, and other sensitive information from unsecured WiFi networks. This has raised questions about how such data could be used or misused, and whether other companies might engage in similar practices without facing consequences.
Google’s Response and Potential Implications
Google has said from the start that the data was collected in error, and was stored by mistake. They have issued multiple statements expressing regret and have taken steps to delete the data. However, the explanation has not satisfied all critics. The UK Police investigation adds another layer of scrutiny, and Google may now have to explain things to the UK Police in more detail.
The implications of this investigation could be significant. If the UK Police find that Google did indeed violate the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act and the Wireless Telegraphy Act, it could lead to legal repercussions for the company. This could include fines, stricter regulations, and a loss of public trust. Moreover, it could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially leading to more stringent oversight of data collection practices by tech companies.
The case also highlights the broader issue of data privacy in the digital age. As technology continues to advance, the amount of data being collected and stored by companies is growing exponentially. This raises important questions about how this data is being used, who has access to it, and what measures are in place to protect it. The Google Street View WiFi data capture incident serves as a reminder of the need for robust data protection laws and the importance of holding companies accountable for their actions.
As soon as we get some more information, we will let you guys know.
via The Guardian
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