Google’s size has attracted scrutiny from regulators, lawmakers, publishers and civil society groups. Central concerns include the company’s position in online search, digital advertising, mobile operating systems and web browsers.
Antitrust authorities have examined whether Google used its market power to favour its own services, restrict competitors or preserve its advertising position. The details vary by country and legal case. Courts and regulators continue to assess the evidence, the relevant markets and the possible remedies.
Privacy is another major issue. Google’s products process large amounts of information connected with searches, locations, accounts, devices and online activity. The company provides privacy controls and has changed some tracking practices, but users and policymakers continue to debate how data should be collected, combined and used for advertising.
Content moderation and misinformation present further challenges, especially on YouTube and in search results. Google is not the author of most information it displays, yet its systems influence what users encounter. The company must balance open access to information with efforts to limit harmful, deceptive or illegal material.
