Google

[Karen]

I wonder about it, and if it is just some German or European branch that decided to do that!

[Lady's Human]

Google CEO Eric Schmidt recently said internet users shouldn't worry about privacy unless they have something to hide.

Now, every time the Government makes a statement like that, there's howling from all quarters.

Doesn't sound like something Google Germany did on a whim.

[Cataholic]

Constitutional rights, like the 4th amendment, are rights between a citizen and its government, not a person and a private company. For instance, my company can film and record me all day long, there are no 4th amendment protections afforded me in that situation.

Perhaps that is why no one is clamoring 4th amendment issues here.

[Lady's Human]

Yes, but this is a private entity gathering data on individuals without their consent.

It's not a government entity, however, would you like someone essentially gathering the keys to your computer while driving through your neighborhood unannounced?

I'm willing to bet that would be a hell no.

[Catty1]

...unless they were driving in Beijing....

[Cataholic]

You asked why no 4th amendment rants, I answered.

As to someone driving through my neighborhood gathering data on me, you asked the wrong person. I, personally, don't care. I am in the minority, I am sure.

[Lady's Human]

Pay bills by computer?

Correspond through email for work?

Shop online?

Think your data is secure? (It isn't, but that's a side issue)

Google just stepped up their data mining by an incredible amount. They have become the 800 lb gorilla of info security.