What You Need to Know About the Claims
Recently, many users have come across headlines about a lawsuit involving Google’s Web & App Activity settings. But some are asking—is this lawsuit a legitimate case or just another scam attempt to collect user data or money? With data privacy becoming a heated topic, it’s important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to lawsuits and consumer rights.
Understanding the Google Web & App Activity Setting
Web & App Activity is a feature found in every Google Account that tracks your online behavior across services like Search, Maps, YouTube, and Chrome. The intention is to improve personalized experiences, but critics argue it gives Google too much access to your private information. When users disable this setting, they expect no further tracking—however, the lawsuit alleges otherwise.
The Lawsuit in Question
A class-action lawsuit filed in 2023 accuses Google of tracking user behavior even after users paused their Web & App Activity. This case is being heard in California, and the plaintiffs argue Google misled users by failing to properly halt data collection. You can find official coverage of the story on Reuters and The Verge.
Scam Alerts Around the Lawsuit
While the lawsuit itself appears legitimate and has been filed in court, scammers are using the buzz around this case to trick people. Phishing emails, fake settlement pages, and misleading ads have started circulating, claiming to offer “compensation” from the Google lawsuit. These scams may ask for your personal information, banking details, or even demand payment to file a claim.
To stay safe, only refer to trusted sources like FTC.gov or Google’s official blog when researching lawsuits and settlement news.
How to Spot a Scam Related to the Lawsuit
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails claiming you’re eligible for a lawsuit payout
- Never enter your Google account password on third-party websites
- Avoid clicking links in suspicious emails or text messages
- Use verified sources like Top Class Actions to track real lawsuits
Is Google Actually Paying Out?
So far, no official settlement has been announced in the Web & App Activity case. If a court decides in favor of the plaintiffs, there might be a claims process later. However, Google has denied wrongdoing, arguing that users are clearly informed about their activity settings. Until a settlement is officially issued and hosted on a verifiable claims site, don’t trust any message offering compensation.
What Users Can Do Right Now
Whether or not this lawsuit results in changes, you can take steps to limit Google’s tracking immediately:
- Visit your Activity Controls and toggle off Web & App Activity
- Clear past data from your My Activity page
- Use private browsers or privacy-focused alternatives like DuckDuckGo
- Review which third-party apps have access to your Google account via Security Checkup
The lawsuit against Google regarding Web & App Activity tracking appears to be real and is moving through the courts. However, scammers are exploiting the headlines to phish users with false claims of payouts or legal notices. If you see a message claiming you’re owed money from Google, verify the source before taking action. Trust only official websites and steer clear of emails asking for sensitive information.