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Privacy, Consumer Groups Seek to Block Google-Fitbit Deal

Associated Press

   NEW YORK - Nine privacy, social justice and consumer groups are calling
   for the U.S. government to block Google's $2.1 billion acquisition of
   fitness-gadget maker Fitbit, citing antitrust and privacy concerns.

   They say in a Wednesday letter to the Federal Trade Commission that the
   deal would consolidate Google's dominance over internet services like
   search, advertising and smartphone operating systems.

   They also worry it'll add to Google's store of consumer data. Health
   information is of particular concern. Google has hired health care
   executives, hinting at a health-data business to come.

   Politicians and regulators have been scrutinizing Google and other
   Silicon Valley companies for how they use customer data and leverage
   their size to thwart competitors.

   Google didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

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