Google has decided to change privacy across all of their properties without giving users the ability to opt out of any of the changes. The idea is that by monitoring user actions across all Google properties (Google Search, Gmail, YouTube) and retaining that data as it associates with individual users, then Google will be able to create more user-specific ads on all platforms. For example, “If someone watches an NBA clip online and lives in Washington, the firm could advertise Washington Wizards tickets in that person’s Gmail account.”
Google also claims that the retention and analysis of this data will help the platforms deliver the proper information to the user. “When someone is searching for the word “jaguar,” Google would have a better idea of whether the person was interested in the animal or the car.”
This type of connection between web sites is what may concern many users. People who many not want the information in their emails to be connected to themselves as a user on properties such as YouTube.
“Google’s new privacy announcement is frustrating and a little frightening,” said Common Sense Media chief executive James Steyer. “Even if the company believes that tracking users across all platforms improves their services, consumers should still have the option to opt out — especially the kids and teens who are avid users of YouTube, Gmail and Google Search.”
This is all supposed to go into effect on March 1st. We’ll see if any adjustments are made to the changes before then.