Watchdog group asks Google to create personal data "opt-out"

20.12.2008

Simpson said he recently became aware that Ask.com provides a service called "AskEraser," which allows site users to their personal information from the company's systems.

"That's what prompted us to say [to Google], if these guys can do it, why can't you?" Simpson said.

Consumer Watchdog is also asking Google chairman and CEO Eric Schmidt for an in-person meeting to discuss their request.

"I'm very optimistic that he's sincere about listening to people's concerns," Simpson said. "I fully expect we'll have a meeting at some point."

A Google spokeswoman could not say Friday how the company would respond to Consumer Watchdog's request for a face-to-face talk, but she said Google would be in contact with the group.