In an effort to avoid potential antitrust lawsuits, Google reportedly instructed its employees to delete emails, avoid using certain words, and involve lawyers in communications as frequently as possible. The tech giant’s alleged practices were revealed in documents obtained by The Markup, shedding light on the company’s strategies to steer clear of legal trouble.
According to the documents, Google implemented a system called “Antitrust Sensitive Behavior” to guide employees on how to communicate in a way that minimized the risk of antitrust violations. Employees were advised to use coded language, avoid certain terms like “market share” or “data scraping,” and involve legal counsel in discussions related to competition and regulation.
Additionally, the documents detailed instructions on how to handle internal and external communications, emphasizing the need to be cautious and strategic in discussions that could potentially be used against the company in antitrust cases. Google’s efforts to shield itself from legal threats were evident in its strict guidelines on email retention, with employees instructed to delete messages that could be incriminating or problematic in the event of litigation.
While Google has not publicly commented on the revelations, the documents suggest a concerted effort by the company to skirt antitrust regulations and protect itself from potential legal repercussions. As scrutiny on big tech companies continues to grow, Google’s actions serve as a reminder of the challenges and complexities involved in navigating the regulatory landscape.
The revelations come at a time when tech giants like Google are facing increased scrutiny over their market dominance and alleged anticompetitive practices. As regulators and lawmakers continue to investigate the industry, Google’s efforts to manage its communications and minimize legal risks may come under further scrutiny.
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