Google says private data not used for mapping feature

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Google denies use of private data

HARTFORD, Conn. — Google representatives say they’re working with authorities to address privacy concerns over its mapping service.

Last month, Google acknowledged it had mistakenly collected data over public Wi-Fi networks in more than 30 countries. Authorities fear the collection may violate privacy laws.

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal held a news conference Monday urging the search engine company to reveal whether it illegally collected data from state personal and business wireless computer networks for the Street View feature.

In an email to The Associated Press, a Google spokeswoman said its Wi-Fi collection and Street View feature, which provides pictures of neighborhoods, are unrelated.

Police in Germany and Australia already have launched their own investigations into the matter.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal on Monday urged Google to “come clean to the American public” on whether the search engine illegally collected data in the state from personal and business wireless computer networks for its mapping service.

The controversy stems from the search engine’s Street View feature, which provides pictures of neighborhoods.

Last month, Google representatives acknowledged they had mistakenly collected data over public Wi-Fi networks in more than 30 countries.

During a news conference, Blumenthal said the data collection could give Google access to personal e-mails, passwords and web browsing histories, though he had no reports of any problems.

“People have legitimate expectations that private information will be kept private,” he said. “These drive-by data sweeps may violate not only those expectations, but also possibly the law.”

Authorities in Germany and Australia already have launched their own investigations into the matter.

The attorney general also released a letter he wrote to Google executives last month asking a series of questions clarifying the information gathered for Street View.

Blumenthal said he has yet to get a response but mentioned he expects to receive a reply “as early as today.”

“Their credibility depends on truthful and prompt answers to these questions,” he said.

Google representatives did not immediately reply to e-mails.