In a landmark move, Google has agreed to pay $1.375 billion to settle allegations from Texas that it unlawfully collected and used users’ data without consent. This settlement, announced on May 9, 2025, by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, represents the largest amount ever secured by a single state in a data privacy case against the tech giant.
The Allegations
The lawsuit, initiated in 2022, accused Google of violating Texas consumer protection laws by collecting users’ geolocation data, tracking incognito searches, and harvesting biometric information such as voiceprints and facial geometry through services like Google Photos and Google Assistant. Paxton emphasized that these practices occurred without proper user consent, even when users believed they had disabled such tracking features.
Google’s Response
Google has not admitted any wrongdoing as part of the settlement. A company spokesperson stated that the agreement addresses “old claims” related to product policies that have since been updated. The settlement does not require Google to implement any new product changes.
Broader Implications
This settlement is part of a broader trend of increased scrutiny on tech companies regarding data privacy practices. In 2024, Meta Platforms agreed to a $1.4 billion settlement with Texas over similar allegations involving the unauthorized collection of biometric data.
These significant settlements highlight a growing demand for greater transparency and accountability from tech companies in handling user data. They also underscore the importance of robust data privacy laws and enforcement at the state level.
As digital services continue to evolve, the balance between innovation and user privacy remains a critical issue. This settlement may serve as a precedent for other states and countries seeking to enforce data privacy standards and protect consumer rights in the digital age.
