Google Slams DOJ’s Proposed Remedies in Search Antitrust Case

Calls the measures harmful to consumers, the economy, and innovation!


As the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) pushes for sweeping remedies in its 2020 antitrust lawsuit over search distribution practices, Google has hit back, warning that the proposed actions could harm consumers, stifle innovation, and undermine America's global tech leadership.

In a detailed statement, Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, called the DOJ’s proposals “unprecedented” and far beyond the court’s liability ruling. She argued that the remedies would not only disrupt user experience but also hurt smaller businesses and device makers that depend on revenue from search partnerships.

Privacy, Innovation, and Security at Risk
According to Google, forcing browsers and devices to default to rival search engines like Bing would interfere with consumer choice. Furthermore, preventing Google from bidding for search distribution deals could raise device prices and reduce funding for browsers such as Firefox.

Of particular concern is the DOJ’s proposal that Google share sensitive user data with third-party companies, which the tech giant says could expose users to serious privacy and security risks.

Mulholland also criticized the DOJ’s push to split off products like Chrome and Android, calling it a move that would weaken cybersecurity and hinder innovation. She added that involving a government-appointed committee in AI development would slow the U.S. in the global tech race — especially against rising competitors like China.

A Call for Balance
Google emphasized that it will appeal the court’s decision but is also urging a more balanced approach to remedies. The company claims its own proposals focus on addressing the core issue — the contestability of search distribution contracts — without damaging the broader tech ecosystem.

Quoting the U.S. Supreme Court, Google concluded, “Caution is key” in antitrust remedies — a principle it believes the DOJ is ignoring.