- Deal resolves privacy violation claims.
- Google denies wrongdoing in settlement.
What happened: Google agrees to pay over user data handling
On 9 May 2025, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced a $1.375 billion settlement with Google. This ends two lawsuits that alleged the company broke consumer protection laws. These claims involved Google’s handling of user data in Incognito mode, Location History, and biometric tracking.
According to Paxton, Google continued to collect user location and browsing data even when users believed tracking was off. The lawsuits also raised concerns about Google recording facial geometry and voiceprints without consent.
Google did not admit fault. It said the claims were outdated and its data policies have since changed. No changes to products are required as part of the settlement. Texas did not specify how the funds would be used. This is one of the largest state settlements for alleged data misuse.
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Why it’s important
This settlement highlights growing legal action over user privacy. It shows that states are willing to take strong action when tech firms allegedly misuse data. The size of the fine reflects the seriousness of the claims.
The case centres on whether users were properly informed about Google’s tracking. Location History and Incognito mode were both cited as features that misled users. The suit also raised concerns about the collection of biometric data, such as voice and facial recognition.
Although Google did not admit wrongdoing, it has agreed to pay a large sum. The case may influence how other states address digital privacy. It may also lead to stricter controls on how tech companies design and explain data features.
