\nThe figure is much higher than the tens-of-millions that had been expected. But that could also keep Google well clear of more damaging consequences for the YouTube platform.
\nWhat was this investigation about?
\nThe investigation was chiefly centered around how the company used the data YouTube collected from minor children. Specifically, it centered on the fact that no account is required to access YouTube. Advertisements shown are typically the type used to track individual virtual movement and activity across the internet.
\nConsent and the ability to even grant consent lie at the heart of the matter. No account can even be created for anyone under the age of 13 and obtaining parental permission is especially difficult. Those users are also legally unable to give consent on their own through general use of YouTube.
\nThe information taken includes a significant amount of exceedingly personal data including phone numbers, app usage, and device information. All of that could be classified as identifiable, making it more sensitive than just a browser history or watch history might be. Improper collection and use of that data is a breach of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act.
\nAnother matter at the center of the controversy surrounding the investigation. Investigators reportedly concluded that YouTube had violated the act in question, is how changes will impact content creators. One possible solution would simply be to move the content for kids \u2014 and, consequently, viewers and creators \u2014 to YouTube Kids. That would result in effective demonetization of those videos.
\nThe streaming video provider has also considered and apparently stopped running targeted ads on those same videos. That change will already impact revenue generated by and for YouTubers. It will likely be less impactful than a move to switch channels entirely would be.
\nThe apparent settlement is a close shave for embattled Google
\nThis isn’t the first time Google has run into trouble with authorities around the globe over its use of data and likely won’t be the last \u2014 despite the company’s best efforts. The search giant has faced increasing scrutiny due to practices pertaining to everything from how it surfaces content to data collection and anti-competitive behavior.
\nIts latest brush with regulators was arguably a much closer ordeal. Finalizing the settlement with the FTC also could serve to help level the playing field for video streaming apps by creating a clearer division between kid-friendly and more mature offerings from Google.
\nSources close to the investigation have stated that the settlement was reached with only a three-to-two vote. Finer details about any policy or practice changes Google’s subsidiary might need to make have not been disclosed. That’s likely pending approval from the Justice Department. But there is also a chance that it will turn down the settlement outright and seek harsher consequences.
\nSo Google may not quite be safe from stronger repercussions just yet. It isn’t apparent how its apps or services might change as a result of the settlement.
\nThe post Google Is Close To Finalizing A $200M FTC Settlement \u2013 Report appeared first on Android Headlines.
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![](\"https:\/\/plus.maciejpiasecki.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/YouTube-AH-NS-09-600x338.jpg\")
\nSource: ndroidheadlines.com <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"