Texas secured a $1.375 billion settlement from Google in 2025, the largest privacy fine imposed on the tech giant by any U.S. state. Attorney General Ken Paxton called it a “historic victory” following allegations that Google tracked user location data despite disabled settings and collected biometric information without consent. Google denied wrongdoing, characterizing the settlement as resolving “old claims” with no required product changes. This landmark case may inspire similar lawsuits nationwide as privacy regulations tighten.
After years of legal battles over privacy violations, Texas has secured a record-breaking $1.375 billion settlement from Google in 2025. This represents the largest privacy-related fine imposed on Google by any U.S. state, dwarfing previous multi-state settlements like the $391 million agreement reached in 2022.
The lawsuit, initiated by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in 2022, accused Google of tracking your location data even when you’d disabled Location History settings. You were allegedly tracked across various Google products over multiple years without your knowledge or consent.
Additional allegations included Google’s collection of your biometric data, including facial recognition information, without explicit permission. The settlement addresses claims that Google captured users’ voiceprints and facial geometry without obtaining informed consent. The company also reportedly recorded data from your incognito searches despite promises of privacy during these browsing sessions.
Attorney General Paxton described the outcome as a “historic victory” for data privacy rights in Texas. The settlement serves as a reminder that Big Tech companies are not above the law in Texas. The penalty approaches the $1.4 billion fine previously paid by Meta for similar biometric data violations in the state.
Google has responded by characterizing the settlement as resolving “a raft of old claims” related to policies the company had already updated. The tech giant denied admitting any liability or wrongdoing in the agreement.
You won’t see any required product changes or mandated disclosures from this settlement. Google emphasized that it continues to integrate privacy measures into its products and services, including local storage of Maps Timeline data and auto-delete options for location data.
This case signals growing financial risks for tech companies that mishandle your personal information. The unprecedented fine amount reflects increased regulatory scrutiny of Big Tech firms both in the U.S. and internationally.
The settlement may prompt other states to pursue similar lawsuits against technology companies for privacy violations. It highlights the ongoing tension between protecting your privacy rights and allowing companies to collect data for their services and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Google Track Users Across Its Various Platforms?
Google tracks you across platforms through several methods.
They use Google Analytics 4 with User-ID, Google Account ID, and Device ID to connect your behavior across sessions.
When you’re logged into your Google account with Ads personalization enabled, Google Signals links your activity across devices.
They employ both deterministic tracking (using your email when logged in) and probabilistic tracking (using IP addresses and other data to make educated guesses about your identity).
Can Texans Opt Out of Google’s Data Collection Practices?
You can partially opt out of Google’s data collection in Texas.
Visit your Google Account settings and adjust privacy controls for location history, web activity, and ad personalization.
For stronger protection, use browser privacy settings and third-party blocking tools.
Remember that complete opt-out is challenging while using Google services.
Some state and federal privacy laws provide additional protections, but you’ll need to take proactive steps to minimize data collection.
Will Affected Texas Residents Receive Compensation From the Penalty?
No, you won’t receive direct compensation from Google’s $1.4 billion privacy settlement with Texas.
The settlement funds go to the state rather than to individual Texas residents affected by Google’s data collection practices.
Neither Texas authorities nor Google have announced any plans for a consumer redress process or individual payouts.
The settlement benefits Texans indirectly through stronger privacy protections and regulatory enforcement, but doesn’t include direct financial remedies for individuals.
What Specific User Data Did Google Allegedly Mishandle?
Google allegedly mishandled several types of your personal data, including location information that was tracked even when you disabled Location History settings.
The company also collected biometric data such as facial geometry and voiceprints without proper consent.
Your private searches in incognito mode, device information, and detailed movement patterns across devices were reportedly tracked.
Google’s apps, including Maps, continuously gathered your whereabouts through geolocation services despite your privacy preferences.
How Will Google Change Its Privacy Policies Following This Ruling?
Google plans to modify its privacy policies following the settlement.
You’ll notice stronger privacy controls and increased transparency in how your data is collected and used. The company will limit the use of biometric data for advertising and focus on complying with state privacy laws.
Though Google hasn’t admitted wrongdoing, they claim to have already implemented some policy changes to enhance protection of your personal information and biometric markers.
