In an effort to avoid potential antitrust suits, Google has been instructing its employees to delete certain messages and avoid using specific words in communications. The tech giant has reportedly been telling employees to copy lawyers on emails as a way to protect themselves from potential legal action.
According to sources, Google has been implementing a systematic process to ensure compliance with antitrust laws by cautioning employees to avoid using certain words and phrases that could be seen as anti-competitive or incriminating. The company has also been directing employees to delete messages that could potentially be used against them in antitrust investigations.
This revelation comes as Google and other tech companies face increasing scrutiny from regulators and lawmakers over alleged anti-competitive practices. Google has been involved in several antitrust cases in recent years, including a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice in October 2020 alleging that the company engaged in anticompetitive behavior in the search and advertising markets.
By instructing employees to delete messages and avoid certain language, Google is attempting to protect itself from legal repercussions that could arise from antitrust investigations. The company’s careful approach to communications highlights the challenges faced by tech companies operating in an increasingly regulated environment.
Google’s actions have raised concerns about the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability, as well as the broader issue of antitrust enforcement in the technology sector. As the company continues to navigate antitrust scrutiny, its efforts to steer clear of legal trouble through internal communications guidelines may come under further scrutiny from regulators and lawmakers.
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