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Google resolves Assistant privacy lawsuit with $68 million settlement

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Google will settle its Assistant spying lawsuit for $68 million

Google Settles Class-Action Lawsuit Over Unauthorized Voice Recordings

Google may owe you money following its decision to settle a class-action lawsuit regarding the mishandling of recordings made by its devices when triggered unintentionally. The issue was brought to light by a 2019 report from German outlet VRT NWS, revealing that recordings were made when Google Assistant was activated by phrases other than its designated trigger word, “Ok Google.” According to recent court filings, the proposed settlement amount is $68 million, as initially reported by Reuters.

Allegations Against Google

The lawsuit accuses Google of unlawfully and intentionally recording individuals’ confidential communications without their consent during these “False Accepts.” VRT NWS reported that human workers reviewing Assistant audio clips had heard personal information and private conversations in cases where Google Assistant was activated accidentally or by unauthorized users, such as children.

Proposed Settlement Details

The plaintiffs’ claims also included allegations that information obtained from these recordings was shared with third parties for targeted advertising and other purposes, a claim that Google has denied. In the proposed settlement, Google refutes any allegations of misconduct.

Who Is Eligible for Compensation?

If approved, the settlement will benefit individuals whose Google accounts were linked to a device with Google Assistant installed as early as 2016. This includes Pixel phones, Google Home devices, smart speakers, smart displays, Nest Hub, and Nest Hub Max. Users who bought any of these devices may receive compensation ranging from $18 to $56. Additionally, individuals who interacted with Google Assistant or resided in a household where conversations were recorded without consent may be eligible for payouts ranging from $2 to $10.

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