Google Desktop's Evolution Cause Privacy Concerns

Google Desktop evolved from Version 1, Version 2 to now Version 3, it gains many new characteristics and functions. According New on your Desktop, in v. 1 you can quickly find existing information on your own computer; in v. 2, it became easier to organize and find new personalized information from all over the web via the Sidebar; in v.3, you can even also search across multiple computers to find your information. So are you satisfied with these improvements? If yes, then you'd better make some considerations as to the new released v. 3. To have a look at the reports below may not too bad to you!


Privacy fears hit Google search


Google is increasingly in the spotlight over the issue of privacy
A leading US digital rights campaign group has warned against using Google software which lets people organise and find information on their computers.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation said the latest version of Google Desktop posed a risk to privacy.
This is because a feature in the software lets Google keep personal data on its servers for up to 30 days.
Google says it plans to encrypt all data transferred from users' hard drives and restrict access.

Government snooping
The new version of its desktop search software comes as Google is battling efforts by the US Department of Justice to force it to hand over data about what people are looking for.
We think this will be a very useful tool, but you will have to give up some of your privacy Marissa Mayer, Google Google data request fears
Some of Google's main competitors have already complied with the request for details about people's search habits.
The case has focused attention on the issue of personal information held by internet companies.
"Coming on the heels of serious consumer concern about government snooping into Google's search logs, it's shocking that Google expects its users to now trust it with the contents of their personal computers," said EFF staff attorney Kevin Bankston.
"Unless you configure Google Desktop very carefully, and few people will, Google will have copies of your tax returns, love letters, business records, financial and medical files, and whatever other text-based documents the desktop software can index.
"The government could then demand these personal files with only a subpoena rather than the search warrant it would need to seize the same things from your home or business," he said.
'Useful tool'.......Full report to see BBC News.
Google Desktop 3 poses 'privacy risk'
Google Desktop Across Computers Crosses EFF
Privacy Experts Advice Against Google Desktop 3
Google's New Desktop Search Has Privacy Advocates Fretting


Technorati tags: Google,Desktop, Privacy

Post Title

→

Google Desktop's Evolution Cause Privacy Concerns

Post URL

→

https://blognews12.blogspot.com/2006/02/google-desktop-evolution-cause-privacy.html

Visit All News Blog for Daily Updated All News Blog Collection