[jaywunder]

The reason why I'm okay with Google, but not Verizon spying on me is because I pay Verizon but I don't pay Google. Verizon shouldn't have to sell my data for more money because they already charge money for their service. If their service is too expensive then Verizon can charge more money. However Google gives me services for free so I expect they'll sell my data to other companies.

[criddell]

I actually feel like I'm getting something in return for letting Google index my personal data. I also trust Google far, far more than any ISP (wired or wireless) that I have used.

[Bartweiss]

I also have faith that Google won't accidentally expose my data to the entire internet - or at least, they'll only fall to vulnerabilities that affect everyone.

Verizon's ethics aside, I have no real trust in their competence to keep data to themselves. I've dealt with their website, I've read the stories of people getting their accounts hijacked because Verizon can't handle verification right, and all the rest. I don't want a side channel to track my downloads, location, and god knows what else because I expect it'll be compromised far faster.

[criddell]

That, and the telcos have a history of being very helpful to the government. I'm thinking about https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Room_641A.

Google seems to do a better job protecting their network and defending user security.

[Bartweiss]

Another good point. Even assuming that Google has lots of government ties and no real respect for privacy, I still don't expect them to roll over with no discretion whatsoever. I pretty much expect Verizon to do like AT&T and surrender all their user data unprompted.

[JustSomeNobody]

Exactly. Your data is a currency. I cannot stress this enough. I(!) should be allowed to spend that currency however I choose. If I am already paying you for a service, you shouldn't get to have my data, too!

[rhino369]

Your android phone was free was it?