Google Street View - Privacy is not an option

[CatInASuit]

It looks as though Google has been guilty of several breaches of picking up a lot of personal and private data while driving around mapping streets.

First off, they mapped all the wi-fi hotspots. Of course if they were open, the downloaded any and all data they could get their hands on. Personal details, passwords, email addresses and stored them in google.

Secondly, they had the search details for a woman's refuge, so that when someone looked for it, they got a map and a picture of the front entrance. Initially queries to get it removed when not answered, although I bet with the press getting involved it will shortly vanish. Details on this one here

Seriously, has Google become really lazy recently and just looking for the quick and dirty methods to get everything done. Far from their motto of "Do no Evil", they are acting more and more like every other evil corporation. If that is the case, then as they have over 70% over the search industry, it could be interesting to see what Monopolies and Mergers would have to say about it.

[Zuul]

From what I understand, when they were mapping the WiFi spots they actually got things like emails as well. If they were open, anything that was currently being sent was harvested.

Also, they're now providing servants to their employees.