$5 Billion Blind Spot: Google Pays for Private Browsing Not So Private

A Reuters report claims that Google’s Incognito Mode in the Chrome browser does not offer true anonymity in web browsing, as user activities are still tracked through mechanisms like cookies. This lawsuit, seeking compensation of at least $5 billion, has led to a preliminary settlement between Google and the attorneys representing the consumers, although the exact settlement amount remains undisclosed.

This lawsuit, filed in 2020, encompasses consumers whose online browsing privacy was affected by Google since June 1, 2016. The suit accuses Google of violating federal wiretap laws and California privacy laws, demanding at least $5,000 per consumer in compensation.

Despite Google’s appeal, a court in August of this year dismissed Google’s request, acknowledging that Google did indeed infringe upon consumer privacy rights.

Following the preliminary settlement, Google and the lawyers representing the consumers have reached a legally binding agreement. The settlement proposal is expected to be formally submitted on February 24, 2024, for court approval. Meanwhile, the class-action lawsuit proceedings originally scheduled for February 5, 2024, will be suspended.