The logo of Google is seen at the high profile startups and high tech leaders gathering, Viva Tech,in Paris, France May 16, 2019. REUTERS/Charles Platiau
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MILAN, July 14 (Reuters) – Italy’s competition authority AGCM said on Thursday it has launched an investigation against Google (GOOGL.O) over an alleged abuse of dominant position in data portability.
The watchdog said in a statement that Google allegedly hindered interoperability with other platforms, particularly with Weople, an app by Italian operator Hoda.
“Google’s conduct could compress the right to portability of personal data… and could constrain the economic benefits that consumers can derive from their data,” the regulator said, adding that the alleged abuse could limit competition.
The competition regulator carried out inspections on Wednesday at Google premises along with Italy’s finance police, it said in a statement.
Google was not immediately available for comment.
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Reporting by Elvira Pollina, editing by Giulia Segreti
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