CENSORED! New Google Drive Policy Will Restrict, Penalize Users for Alleged Violations

Google Drive changes to file sharing could create a new type of censorship, effectively stating that Google does not approve users’ files.

A new Google Drive policy will restrict access to files that allegedly violate Google’s Terms of Service or its “Abuse Program Policies.” The restriction would also prevent users from sharing files. While the owner of the file would still have access, anyone else to whom it was shared would not, even if those individuals have a link prior to the restriction, Tom’s Guide explained. But, penalties for violating content laws would not cease there. Google could reportedly decide to start “restricting access to the content, removing the content, and limiting or terminating a user’s access to Google products,” Tom’s Guide said.

Google’s Abuse Program Policies include bans on “hate speech” and “misleading content.” The “misleading content” category includes alleged “conspiracy theories,” “harmful health practices” and “Misleading content related to civic and democratic processes.” 

Google has not been forthcoming about the details of how it will detect and curb such objectionable or illegal content, according to Tom’s Guide. The “exceptions based on artistic, educational, documentary or scientific considerations” are also vague. While users will be notified by email and thus be able to appeal penalties in case there is a mistake, and the policy change is allegedly to keep users “safe,” the ambiguities are concerning for free speech advocates.

If Google can remove content or terminate “a user’s access to Google products,” based on rules such as “misleading content” bans, this policy would seem to be set up to allow even more biased censorship.

Google displays a leftist bent to censorship. Google received a “F” for Free Speech and Online Freedom on the most recent MRC Free Speech America Big Tech report card. Google was also awarded an F for Free Speech in its first and second quarter reports cards.

Conservatives under attackGoogle can be reached at (650) 253-000 to demand transparency and equal treatment for conservatives. Contact us at Media Research Center if you feel your voice has been blocked. Contact formPlease help us make Big Tech more accountable.

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