Italian regulator fines Apple, Google 10 million EUR over data use as Italian authorities punish “aggressive practices” over commercial use of user data.
Data collection
The Autorità Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (AGCM) said in statement the two technology companies did not provide “clear and immediate information” on their collection and use of user data from individuals using their services and products.
The AGCM stated that when users create an account with Google, the process was designed to ensure that the terms and conditions regarding data usage were, by default, set to be accepted.
Regarding Apple, the regulator stated that the user is not given any choice regarding data.
Appeals incoming
The two companies both stated that they objected to the AGCM’s decision and that they planned to appeal.
“We provide industry-leading transparency and control to all users, so they can choose what information to share or not, and how it’s used,” Apple said in a statement, describing the regulator’s view as “wrong”.
In a statement, Google said that it followed “fair and transparent practices to provide users with useful services, as well as provide clear information on their use”.
The fine is the maximum amount the watchdog can apply in these cases according to the regulator.
A recent report concerning data privacy in the region can be found here.
