Google Buzz users on Tuesday should have received a rare email from Google regarding a settlement offer for a class action suit by Gmail users over privacy concerns (if not, check your SPAM box).
“Shortly after its [Google Buzz] launch, we heard from a number of people who were concerned about privacy. In addition, we were sued by a group of Buzz users and reached a settlement in this case,” Google wrote in the above mentioned email.
“The settlement acknowledges that we quickly changed the service to address users’ concerns. In addition, Google has committed $8.5 million to an independent fund, most of which will support organizations promoting privacy education and policy on the Web. We will also do more to educate people about privacy controls specific to Buzz. The more people know about privacy online, the better their online experience will be,” Google said.
This isn’t a settlement where Gmail users receive cash, however “everyone in the U.S. who uses Gmail is included in the settlement, unless you personally decide to opt out before December 6, 2010.”
The Court will decide on final approval of the settlement agreement on January 31, 2011.
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