Google has agreed to settle a US lawsuit that accused the company of invading users’ privacy by tracking them even when they were browsing in “private mode”. The class action sought at least $5 billion from Google and its parent company Alphabet. Large technology firms have faced increased scrutiny of their practices in the US and elsewhere. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed, but lawyers are expected to present a formal settlement for the court’s approval by February 2024. Google faces other lawsuits challenging its search and digital advertising practices.