EPIC Urges FTC To Investigate Google Buzz Privacy Concerns

Despite the changes that Google has made to Buzz following negative reaction to the service, the Electronic Privacy Information Center has filed a complaint with the US Federal Trade Commission charging the search giant with violating user privacy. EPIC on Tuesday asked the FTC to investigate Google and force it to change or stop offering several features of Buzz, Google's social-networking service launched last week. It also asked for compensatory relief if the agency deems it appropriate.

One of EPIC's concerns is that Buzz is opt-out, rather than opt-in. Gmail users are automatically signed up to be part of Buzz unless they uncheck a box. EPIC asked the FTC to require Google to instead ask Gmail users to opt into the service.

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