Apple and Google have been fined € 10 million each by the Italian Competition and Market Authority (AGCM), which has found that they have not provided their users with clear enough information about the commercial uses of their data – in violation country consumer code.
The regulator also accuses the party of imposing “aggressive” practices to force users to accept commercial processing.
Apple and Google were both contacted for a response to the ACGM sanction, which they said they would appeal to.
Google is accused of setting aside relevant information in the account creation phase while consumers are using its services – information that the regulator says it must provide in order for people to decide whether or not to accept the use of their data for purposes commercial.
The AGCM has also accused Apple of failing to immediately provide users with clear information on how it uses their information commercially when they create an Apple ID or when it enters its digital stores, such as the App Store.
The Italian regulator has merged the practices of both companies in a press release announcing the sanctions accusing each of being aggressive in promoting self-serving trading terms for their respective users, particularly in the account creation phase.
In a statement, Apple denied the ACGM accusation – writing:
“We believe that the view of the Italian Competition Authority is wrong and will appeal the decision. Apple has a long-term commitment to the privacy of our users and we work extremely hard to design products and features that protect our customer data. We provide transparency and industry-leading control for all users, so they can choose what information to share or not, and how to use it. ”
A Google spokeswoman also disagreed with the allegations, announcing through this statement:
“We have transparent practices and the right to provide our users with useful tools and clear information on their use. We give people simple controls to manage their information and restrict the use of personal data, and we work hard to be fully compliant with consumer protection rules. We do not agree with the decision of the Authority and we will appeal.”
