Google changes European privacy terms to comply with privacy law
As of January 22, 2019, Google will change its terms of use and privacy rules for users in the European Union and various European countries outside the Union. Google Ireland will be officially responsible for the data of European users under the new conditions.
The new privacy rules are necessary to comply with the European privacy rules of the General Data Protection Regulation, Google reports. Users will receive a notification at the top of the screen asking if they want to read more. They can then read the new terms of service and privacy policy.
If you compare the current and new versions, you will see that in the new privacy policy Google designates Google Ireland as the responsible party for data, so that European authorities can request data there. “For users residing in the European Economic Area or Switzerland, Google Ireland Limited is the data controller for your information, unless otherwise specified in a service-specific privacy notice. In other words, Google Ireland Limited is the affiliated Google entity responsible for the processing of your information and compliance with applicable privacy laws.”
The terms of service have been amended to no longer apply California law in disputes; local law and local courts are decisive. “If you are a consumer and domiciled in the European Economic Area or Switzerland, the laws of your country of residence will apply and any dispute arising out of or relating to these terms will be settled by the courts in your country. “
There are also minor changes. For example, Google added a phrase to make it clear that government agencies may request data: “Protecting the rights, property, or safety of Google, our users, or the public, as required or permitted by law, including disclosure of data to government agencies. “
Some other texts in the privacy policy will also be changed. For example, the search company writes in its current privacy policy that it asks permission if users want to order something via a Home speaker. In the new version, Google assumes that permission is automatically granted immediately when a reservation is made. “For example, if you use a Google Home to make a reservation through a booking service, we’ll get your consent before sharing your name or phone number with the restaurant.”