Watchdog Asks FTC To Investigate Google
The Electronic Privacy Information Center asked the FTC on Tuesday to open an investigation into Google's cloud computing services -- including Gmail, Google Docs, and Picasa -- to determine "the adequacy of the privacy and security safeguards." The petition follows the recent report of a breach of Google Docs. The high-tech watchdog group cited the growing dependence of American consumers, businesses, and federal agencies on cloud computing services, and urged the Commission to take "such measures as are necessary" to ensure the safety and security of information submitted to Google.
A Google spokesman said the company had not yet reviewed the complaint in detail but many cloud computing providers, including Google, "have extensive policies, procedures and technologies in place to ensure the highest levels of data protection." "We are highly aware of how important our users' data is to them and take our responsibility very seriously," the Google spokesman said. Previous EPIC complaints have led the FTC to order Microsoft to revise the security standards for one of its programs and to require Choicepoint to change its business practices and pay $15 million in fines.
For more Google/privacy coverage, read NationalJournal.com's story, "Google Stands To Gain From Cookie Trail" by Neil Munro.
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