At the same time, if Google's uncooperative behavior is true as the FCC maintains, the obvious question is, "What is Google hiding?"

Consumers and advocacy groups have often criticized Google's seemingly , such as its recent consolidation of its privacy policies so as to have a better view into user behaviors and preferences. Because of the amount of attention those privacy concerns have garnered, you'd think a policy of transparency on Google's part would bode well with those who have doubts about whether or not the company can be trusted with increasing amounts of personal data.

Even if Google's snooping was a mistake, and even if it had nothing to hide, a $25,000 fine for not cooperating with this investigation seems a bit small.

In comparison, European countries have responded quite differently.

As the Times points out, a year ago , or about $140,000 at the time, for Street View privacy violations.