Google settled a class action lawsuit by agreeing to delete billions of records and placing restrictions on user tracking.
Despite disputes, Google is implementing changes to enhance user privacy, such as automatic blocking of third-party cookies and data deletion. [ more ]
Google will turn off third-party tracking for some Chrome users soon
Google is planning to block third-party cookies in Chrome starting in January 2023.
The new Tracking Protection feature will be tested with a small subset of Chrome users before being rolled out to all users in the second half of 2024. [ more ]
EU criticizes Meta's 'privacy for cash' business model
The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) emphasizes that people should not have to choose between giving their data or paying for privacy on major online platforms. [ more ]
The UK could require facial scans or photo IDs to view online porn
The UK's Office of Communications (Ofcom) has published draft age-restriction guidelines for online services hosting explicit sexual content as part of the Online Safety Act.
The guidelines require platforms to ensure children are not able to easily access adult content, with fines of up to £18 million for non-compliance. [ more ]
Perfection Thwarting Progress: Response to IAB Tech Lab's Missive on Google's Privacy Sandbox
The IAB Tech Lab's analysis raises concerns about Google's Privacy Sandbox and its lack of support for key functions in the current ad-tech ecosystem.
Some believe that the analysis may hinder progress towards a privacy-focused era of digital advertising by focusing too much on critiques and not enough on the need for improved user privacy. [ more ]