Competition boffin launches class action against Google UK over search dominance
A British academic has initiated a class-action lawsuit against Google, claiming that its dominance in the online search market has resulted in £5 billion in damages to UK advertisers. Dr Or Brook, an Associate Professor at Leeds University, argues that Google’s anti-competitive practices have forced organisations to solely rely on its advertising services, ultimately inflating costs.
Represented by competition law firm Geradin Partners, Dr Brook aims to hold Google accountable for its alleged unlawful actions, which include requiring Android device makers to pre-install Google services and paying Apple for default search settings in Safari. The case has been brought to the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT).
Google has dismissed the lawsuit as opportunistic, stating that users choose its services for their quality rather than a lack of alternatives. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for digital advertising practices in the UK.
Key Points
- Dr Or Brook has filed a class-action lawsuit against Google, citing £5 billion in damages caused by its monopolistic practices.
- The lawsuit claims Google’s mandatory installations of its services on Android and payments to Apple for default settings harm competition.
- Dr Brook represents hundreds of thousands of UK organisations reliant on Google advertising, highlighting monopolistic control in the market.
- The case is presented before the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal and may influence future advertising regulations.
- Google refutes the claims, asserting their services are chosen for their effectiveness, not due to lack of competition.
Why should I read this?
If you’re interested in the ongoing battle over digital advertising practices and monopoly power, this article serves up some sizzling details! The legal actions against tech giants like Google are crucial for advertisers and everyday users alike. It may just reshape the way we interact with search engines and online ads, so knowing what’s at stake keeps you ahead of the curve!