EFF pushes back on Google data scandal response: ‘Google screwed up’
Source: Android Authority
TL;DR
- A legal complaint was filed against Google for handing over a user’s data to the government before informing the user.
- Google says it informs users “when their accounts have been subpoenaed, unless under legal order not to or in an exceptional circumstance.”
- The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) argues that Google’s exceptions do not apply to this situation.
Background
The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) filed legal complaints against Google, accusing the company of deceptive trade practices for breaking its own policies after it handed a user’s data to U.S. authorities without notifying the user.
The issue stems from a subpoena submitted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) requesting the data of Amandla Thomas‑Johnson, a foreign PhD student who attended a pro‑Palestine protest at Cornell University. Google’s policies state that it will generally notify users before complying with a government request, but the student alleges that Google did not provide any notice.
Google’s Statement
In a statement sent to Android Authority, a Google spokesperson said:
All subpoenas undergo a review process designed to protect user privacy while meeting our legal obligations. We inform users when their accounts have been subpoenaed, unless under legal order not to or in an exceptional circumstance. We push back against those that are overbroad, including objecting to some entirely.
EFF Response
F. Mario Trujillo, Senior Staff Attorney at EFF, responded:
The subpoena targeting Amandla did not fit any of Google’s exceptions. Google screwed up, and it needs to own its mistakes. There was no gag order, Amandla’s personal account was targeted, the investigation did not involve child safety or threats to life, and his account was not hijacked.
Android Authority asked Google to clarify which exception the company believes applies, but no response has been received yet.