DOJ Is Pushing Google to Sell Off Chrome

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking to break up Google’s monopoly on internet search by forcing the tech giant to sell off Chrome, according to Bloomberg. The sell-off of Chrome will affect how users access other Google services such as Gmail, Docs, and Google Maps, as well as the ability to track and sell data for targeted advertising. 

Additionally, the DOJ wants Google to share more of its data with advertisers and allow websites the opportunity to block their content from being used as training material for Google’s AI products. A decision is not expected until next year. 

Judge Called Google a Monopoly in Search Services

This news follows the August 2024 ruling that found Google had maintained a monopoly on search. The intended goals the DOJ recently sought in a court order are the following: 

• Divestiture of Chrome: By selling off Chrome, Google would no longer be able to use Chrome to promote its other products.
• Data Sharing: Google must share search data with competitors to create a more competitive environment.
• Prohibiting Exclusive Agreements: Google would no longer be allowed to enter agreements that set Google as the default search engine on devices. 

The DOJ is also considering that the Android operating system break from Google or restrict it from favoring Google search services. The ultimate goal is to remove Google’s dominance in search and allow for a more competitive marketplace that encourages innovation. Google opposes these legal actions and views them as government overreach that could harm consumers and small businesses. 

Google’s Practices Concealed Information From Their Users

In addition to the anti-trust lawsuit, Google settled a class action lawsuit that accused the tech giant of misleading users into believing Chrome’s Incognito Mode was not tracking their activity. Though Incognito was not saving data on users’ devices, Google was collecting user data via ad tools used by websites. 

Under the settlement agreement, Google agreed to delete millions of data records and clarify to users that their data may still be tracked while in Incognito mode. No money was awarded in the settlement, but those affected can seek compensation by filing a lawsuit. 

You May Have the Right to Seek Compensation

If you have used Chrome Incognito between June 2016 and December 2023, you may have the grounds to pursue a lawsuit against the tech giant. 

Take the quiz now to see if you qualify to join the Incognito Mode lawsuit.