Google has agreed to a $30 million settlement in response to a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of improperly collecting personal data from children under age 13 on YouTube, without obtaining parental consent, and using it for targeted advertising.
Lawsuit Details & Context
- The lawsuit was filed in federal court in San Jose, California, and needs judicial approval before finalization.
- Plaintiffs—parents or guardians of 34 children—alleged Google violated numerous state laws by collecting data even after similar accusations were addressed in a 2019 settlement with the FTC and New York Attorney General, which had required a $170 million fine and operational changes.
- The proposed class includes U.S. children under 13 who watched YouTube between July 1, 2013 and April 1, 2020. The estimated class size is 35 million to 45 million individuals, with potential payouts ranging from $30 to $60 per claimant, assuming a 1–2% claim rate. Plaintiff attorneys are seeking up to $9 million in legal fees.
Why It Matters
This latest settlement underscores ongoing concerns around how tech platforms manage children’s data. Despite past regulatory agreements, such lawsuits reveal continuing scrutiny of whether privacy safeguards are effectively enforced—particularly given YouTube’s massive role in children’s media consumption
At a Glance
| Key Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $30 million |
| Alleged Violation | Data collection from children (<13) without parental consent |
| Class Criteria | U.S. children under 13 from July 2013 to April 2020 |
| Potential Claimants | 35–45 million |
| Estimated Payout | $30–$60 per person (1–2% claim rate) |
| Legal Fees Request | Up to $9 million |
| Related Prior Settlement | $170 million fine in 2019 under COPPA regulations |
Final Thoughts
Google’s $30 million settlement marks another chapter in its ongoing legal and ethical challenges over children’s privacy. While the amount is modest compared to the company’s vast revenues, it reinforces the need for stronger enforcement and transparency—especially in the digital realm where children are prolific and vulnerable content consumers.
