Yes, there have been numerous real-world consequences associated with Google having access to people’s data. Here are a few examples:
Targeted Advertising: Google collects data about what you search for, what websites you visit, and other details about your online behavior in order to serve you personalized ads. Many people find this kind of targeted advertising invasive and uncomfortable.
Data Breaches: In the event of a data breach, the vast amount of personal data Google collects could potentially fall into the wrong hands. This could lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and other serious personal harm.
Loss of Privacy: Perhaps the most immediate consequence is a fundamental loss of privacy. Because Google collects so much data, it can build an extremely detailed profile of your behavior and interests. This can feel intrusive and worryingly close to surveillance.
Economic Disparities and Discrimination: Google can manipulate the online visibility of individuals and businesses, influencing who succeeds and who doesn’t. Poor data protection practices can lead to consumers receiving different pricing options based on their online behavior.
Manipulation of Political Views: User’s search data can be used to feed them tailor-made content that reinforces their existing views, potentially leading to the spread of misinformation, polarization, and manipulation of political perspectives.
Dependency: Over-reliance on Google’s services can limit users’ awareness and usage of alternative platforms or services, leading to over-dependency, monopolies, and less innovation.
Please remember that it also depends on how Google and other companies use and protect the collected data. It’s recommended to use privacy-enhanced tools, be aware of your digital rights and to carefully read the privacy policies of the services you use.