Understanding the Google Privacy Policy Changes

If you're a Google Mail user like us, then you've probably received a few notifications this week about some upcoming changes to Google's Privacy Policy. While you don't necessarily need to take any action when it comes to your privacy settings, you will want to be sure you understand the changes so you'll know what to expect and what to do if you don't like them.

 

Starting on March 1, if you are signed into your Google account, you will notice a streamlining of information across all the Google platforms, from Search, to Gmail to YouTube. The idea is that you'll be able to work more seamlessly and hopefully save time. Like sharing a video on YouTube via your Gmail account with a quick click, or scheduling a family get together on Google Calendar that goes instantly to all your invitees.

Additionally, you'll also notice a more tailored Google experience, with both search results, and  (of course) ads that are based on the interests you've expressed in Google+, Gmail, and YouTube. Hopefully your searches will yield better results based on you, from a simple spelling correction for search terms you've used before, to displaying location based information in searches.

Hey, it would be nice to know where that restaurant is when you search the name, without also having to click through 3 more pages.

Of course, all of this will only occur based on the information you've entered in your Google Dashboard--thus, the whole privacy thing.

We suggest double-checking to see exactly what information you have listed, and editing it as you see fit, keeping in mind that Google will be using it, though be sharing it publicly. Also know that none of this is possible unless you're logged into your Google accounts. So if you'd prefer to keep your Google as it is--simple. Don't log in. -Kristen

For more information about the new changes to the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, you can get a quick overview with their handy FAQ page.

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