Google is probably the best predictor of an individual’s online behavior and unique personal style than most web users are willing to admit. Therefore, who better to give a report of individuals’ own online activities than Google itself.
Recently, Google announced a new Account Activity feature intended to “let persons’ in” on the secret, which is, what it has learned about them, and how they can use it to fight against identity theft.
The internet giant’s clever move to reduce customers’ suspicion, instill trust, and calm privacy fears was remarkably well timed. Google debuted this new reporting system in-line with the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) press release on privacy regulations.The FTC sided with internet users by issuing guidelines aimed to bolster their online presence. Customers would be given more control over what information is shared over multiple internet channels, empowering them in 3 significant ways:
One: The right for users to shut off websites’ and browsers’ tracker systems and devices
Two: Provide users with access to a centralized database which will reveal how
personal data are being treated by vendors, thereby enforcing accountability.
Three. Provisions that will protect privacy for mobile users similar to desktop users
As soon as FTC issued its privacy recommendations
Google was waiting in the wings with a bold comeback to smooth over ruffled feathers. They swept fears of privacy invasion temporarily out the door by declaring that customers would easily discover discrepancies and incidences of identity theft with their new system; like personal detectives, they stand to benefit greatly from their activity service.
.
Andreas Tuerk, Google Product Manager, says the new feature “can help users see if anyone has been signing into their Google account at locations where they don’t visit or from devices they don’t own.”
The multi-billion dollar internet king’s new Activity feature is expected to provide benefits, such as:
1. Summary of incoming and outgoing emails
2. Types of searches and how many
3. Places signed in from , their platform and operating systems used
These features may just win over skeptics and others whose loyalty has been unceremoniously shaken by Google’s policy changes which took effect March 1, 2012.
Google Inc. is an American multinational public co-operation whose mission is to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful. It has virtually no formidable competition, claims over 50% of the global search market, and generates profits primarily through advertising.
