UK Police begin investigation into Google Wi-Fi grab
22/06/2010
Crime reference number 2318672/10 was today issued by London's Metropolitan Police, marking the commencement of investigations into Google for alleged criminal interception of Wireless communications content. Privacy International, which brought the complaint, has been briefed by police on the likely path the investigation will take.
In the first instance police will conduct initial inquiries into the essential facts of the case before deciding which (if any) law may have been breached. In this case PI has brought the action under two laws - the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act and the Wireless Telegraphy Act. The police will need to seek advice on which legislation to focus on, as each involves a different prosecution process.
The police estimate that this initial investigation will take eight to ten days, after which the case will be escalated to a specialist team working at the national level. No estimate has been given regarding the likely period of the main investigation.
The police will need to ascertain who within Google is the "responsible person" for this matter. This appears to involve having to interview Google staff in the UK.
Simon Davies, PI's Director said "We are pleased that the police have taken up this complaint for investigation. An evidence based approach to this complex matter is sorely needed now."
"We have already told police that we will cooperate fully with any inquiries. I know Google will want to do the same".
"We hope that this difficult process will give Google pause for thought about how it conducts itself. Perhaps in future the company will rely less on PR spin and more on good governance and reliable product oversight".
Related:
Google Wi-Fi audit reveals criminal intent by the company
PI responds to Google's Wifi grab
An open letter to EU privacy commissioners regarding deletion of Google WiFi data
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