Ireland fines Google €403 million for location data misuse

On September 21, 2026, Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) fined Google €403 million (approximately $463 million) following an inquiry into the company's handling of location data. The investigation, which began six years prior due to complaints from European consumer rights groups, focused on whether users understood how their location data was being utilized.

The DPC found that Google had not provided clear information regarding user permissions and retained location data longer than necessary, which contributed to users losing control over their personal information. The inquiry examined three specific settings: “web and app activity,” “location history,” and “location accuracy,” covering the period from May 25, 2018, to February 4, 2020.

The DPC has mandated that Google align its data processing practices with legal requirements within six months. Google responded by stating that the case pertains to outdated policies that have since been revised.