Log Out

Germany to Google: Respect data privacy

Wed May 19, 2010 6:14 AM EDT
, , , , ,
Associated Press

FILE - In this Sept. 25, 2007 file picture a visitor passes an exhibition stand of Google company in Duesseldorf, western Germany. German prosecutors have launched an investigation of Google Inc. in connection with a privacy breach that involved it recording fragments of people's online activities through unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Hamburg prosecutor Wilhelm Moellers told the news agency DAPD on Wednesday May 19, 2010 that his office launched the investigation after a complaint was filed with their office against unknown Google employees. (AP Photo/Rene Tillmann, file)

Advertise | AdChoices

BERLIN — Germany's Foreign Minister has warned Google co-founder Larry Page to respect the nation's data protection laws in an escalating dispute over the U.S. Internet giant's "Street View" mapping program.

Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle spoke with Page on Thursday. On Wednesday prosecutors in Hamburg opened a criminal investigation into Google about the recording of people's online activities through unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Google has acknowledged the privacy breach and apologized.

Westerwelle's ministry said he rebuked Page for the glitch, noting those who champion human rights and freedoms must also respect the right to privacy.

Many Germans oppose "Street View" and bristle at the idea of having their homes easily identifiable over the internet.

© 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
  • Enjoy this article? Help vote it up the 'Vine.

Back To Top | Front Page

Published to:

Leave a Comment:
You're in Easy Mode. If you prefer, you can use XHTML Mode instead.
Newsvine Privacy Statement
As a new user, you may notice a few temporary content restrictions. Click here for more info.