Italy’s Antitrust Regulator Fines Apple and Google over Data Use

The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) fined Apple and Google €10 million each for the collection and use of data. The two companies thus continue to face scrutiny all over Europe over alleged anti-competitive practices.

The regulator said in a statement it has found that Apple and Google violated the Italian Consumer Code by failing to provide information about how they gathered and employed user data for commercial purposes. It also cited aggressive methods to obtain the information.

AGCM stated Google had omitted relevant information consumers need to consciously decide to accept its terms covering the collection and use of personal data for commercial purposes. Apple was fined for failing to explicitly provide details on its data collection activities when users sign up for an ID and access its App Store, iTunes, and Apple Books. AGCM claimed the company stated it only collected data to improve the consumer experience and use of its services.

The regulator accused Google of over-zealousness with settings that automatically accepted data transfers or use for commercial purposes when users create a new account. Apple’s lack of choice regarding consent was also highlighted. Earlier this week, AGCM fined Apple and Amazon €200 million over allegations of fixing prices and restricting retailer access.