The Duck Confronts Googzilla
March 18, 2021
You have heard of David and Goliath? What about the duck and Googzilla? No. Navigate to “DuckDuckGo Calls Out Google over User Data Collection.” The metasearch engine wants everyone to know that Google does not define “privacy” the way the duck crowd does. The write up states:
DuckDuckGo says Google tried its best to hide its data collection practices, until it was no longer possible for them to keep it private. ‘After months of stalling, Google finally revealed how much personal data they collect in Chrome and the Google app. No wonder they wanted to hide it,’ DuckDuckGo said in a series of tweets. ‘Spying on users has nothing to do with building a great web browser or search engine. We would know (our app is both in one).’
Everyone is entitled to an opinion.
However, it is interesting to consider the question, “What happens next?”
- Google can ignore the duck. Eric Schmidt is no longer explaining that Qwant keeps him awake at night because that service is a heck of a threat. So, meh.
- Google takes steps to make life slight more interesting for the DuckDuckGo. There are some possibilities which are fun to ponder; for example, hasta la vista to links from the GOOG to the duck or Google works its magic within its walled garden. There’s a lot of content that lives within the Google ecosystem and when it is blocked or gifted with added latency, the scope may be a surprise to some.
- Google goes on the offensive just as it has with Microsoft. Imagine Google’s CEO suggesting that Microsoft’s CEO is dragging red herrings to the monopoly party. What could Google’s minions identify as information of value about DuckDuckGo, its traffic, and its index coverage? Interesting to ponder.
The tale of David and Goliath is an enduring one. The duck versus Googzilla might lack legendary status of brave David, but the confrontation might be a surprising one. Ducks are fierce creatures, but may have to punch above their weight to cause Googzilla pain.
Stephen E Arnold, March 18, 2021
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