Google under the scanner for another violation; Sweden demands explanation

• Sweden’s data protection authority Datainspektionen has hit out at Google over the company’s data collection methods not being completely compliant with GDPR.
• The plaintiff asserted that the ‘Location History’ data in Android devices was still being stored despite the feature being turned off.

After France imposed a huge fine of $57 million on Google on account of GDPR violation, Sweden has now hit out on the tech giant for another data privacy issue in its offerings.

Datainspektionen, Sweden’s data protection authority(DPA) has asked Google to furnish more information on how it makes use of location data of its citizens. This is in response to the DPA receiving a complaint from the Swedish Consumer Association back in November regarding this matter.

Location data woes

The plaintiff asserted that the ‘Location History’ data in Android devices was still being stored despite the feature being turned off.

“According to the complainant, the report by Forbrukerrådet states that Google uses deceptive design, misleading information and repeated pushing to manipulate users into allowing constant tracking of their movements. In essence, the complainant holds that the processing of location data in this way is unlawful and that Google is in violation of Articles 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 25 of the GDPR.” said the notice sent to Google.

In addition, the DPA has also listed out 11 questions that Google must answer with respect to GDPR for complete clarification. Furthermore, it has given time till February 1 to respond to these questions