Congressman concerned about Google Play disclosing personal data

Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) is demanding answers about Google's policy of disclosing its customers' billing information to app developers when they buy an app through Google Play.

In a letter sent to Google CEO Larry Page on Thursday, Johnson expressed concern that the policy could threaten the privacy and safety of Google's customers.

The issue first drew greater attention earlier this month when an Australian app developer complained that he was receiving the name, location and email address of customers who purchased his app.

In his letter, Johnson expressed concern that exposing a person's address could lead to harassment or endanger children. He also wrote that an app developer could use the personal information for identity theft. 

"Google Wallet shares the information needed to process transactions and maintain accounts, and this is clearly stated in the Google Wallet Privacy Notice," a Google representative said. "We look forward to working with Rep. Johnson and his staff to answer any questions."

Johnson asked Google to detail the kinds of information it discloses to developers, how it obtains consent from customers for the information sharing and what precautions it takes to prevent abuse.

He requested a response by Feb 28. 

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