Hank responds to Google letter concerning privacy
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last month, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) sent a letter to Larry Page, the co-founder and chief executive officer of Google, regarding Google’s data sharing practices for apps purchased through Google Play. On Tuesday, Google responded in a letter to Rep. Johnson.
“I am heartened by Google’s forthright response to my questions regarding consumers’ privacy when purchasing apps and other goods through Google Play.
“But I remain concerned that Google does not provide notice to consumers at the time and in the context of their purchase. A short notice stating the types of personal information that Google shares with third parties and reasons for sharing would provide users with greater transparency. Unlike a broad statement buried in the Wallet Privacy Notice, a contextual approach might also prevent the consumer surprise and public alarm that predicated my letter.
Transparency is critical to building consumer trust in the mobile ecosystem. I hope that Google will continue its efforts to educate consumers on privacy and data protection, and I look forward to working together with Google to address the public’s privacy concerns as they may arise.”
Through AppRights – a bottom-up mobile privacy initiative – Congressman Johnson has heard from many consumers who want greater transparency, control, and security on their mobile devices.
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