Google Transparency Report: Record data requests from government and courts

As always, US topped the list with 14,168 user data requests followed by Germany and France with 8,788 and 4,300 requests. India managed to overtake the UK with 3,452 requests while the United Kingdom requested for 3,302 user data. Google’s Transparency Report page also reveals that the search giant granted access to 64 per cent of those requests. Google, however, won’t be sharing details of which accounts and data were requested.

Google says it also saw an increase in requests under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Google in a blog post notes that the requests were in the tune of 21,000-21,499 as opposed to 16,000-16,499 – considerably more than the second half of 2015.

Google’s Transparency Report page notes that the US has implemented meaningful surveillance reforms and is beginning the process of bringing potential reforms to Section 702 of FISA, which authorizes surveillance of non-US persons outside of the United States.

Also Read: Facebook Bug Bounty: Social network has paid $5 million in 5 years

While Google’s Transparency Report page highlights the significant jump in user data requests, it is also worth noting the company is complying with some of the requests. While the new reforms could help bring down the number of user data requests, it won’t be a substantial one for sure.

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