Google’s privacy policy was found to be “too vague”
Google has agreed to rewrite its privacy policy after pressure from the UK Information Commissioner’s Office.
The firm must make it easier for users to find out how their data is collected and what it is used for and submit to a two-year review.
The deal follows an investigation by the regulator. Similar reviews are continuing elsewhere in Europe.
It is understood that Google will seek to strike a similar deal with other European regulators.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) found that Google was “too vague when describing how it uses personal data gathered from its web services and products”.
‘Pleased’
“This undertaking marks a significant step forward following a long investigation and extensive dialogue,” said Steve Eckersley, the ICO’s head of enforcement.
He added: “Whilst our investigation concluded that this case hasn’t resulted in substantial damage and distress to consumers, it is still important for organisations to properly understand the impact of their actions and the requirement to comply with data protection law.”
A Google spokesman said: “We’re pleased that the ICO has decided to close its investigation. We have agreed improvements to our privacy policy and will continue to work constructively with the Commissioner and his team in the future.”
