They know where you live - Google rank worst for privacy

It probably won't shock you to know that Google collect data on you. *A lot* of data. They probably know what computer you're using right now, and they probably know what colour underwear you put on this morning.

A recent study by Privacy International has ranked Google the worst of all the search engines in terms of privacy and say they pose an endemic risk to privacy. Factors contributing to this include the fact that there is no clear limit on how long they keep data for, as well as the fact that they tend to ignore Best Practices accepted by most of the industry.

But do we care?

Google's hold is obvious. The Safari browser Steve Jobs announced this week had Google built in, all Sony Ericsson phones come with the Google browser as standard - there are few companies who haven't partnered with them in one way or another.

And the internet is nothing without personalisation. An intelligent search will pull up results based on what you've previously looked at. Most shopping sites will suggest to you other products based on your choices so far. Are we willing to give this up for our privacy?

Coming from the UK, hardly a day goes by without the papers highlighting the erosion of our privacy, mostly to the Government via things like CCTV and RFID passports. And I don't think it's an issue to take lightly. When a corporation becomes as powerful, if not more so, than a country's government, it's impossible to ignore.

So, should we take a step back in internet time? Should we hand Google our data on a plate? Should they be forced to sign up to a Code of Conduct?

Watch this space.

Susi Weaser is the editor of Shiny Shiny, and has a feeling someone is watching her..