Google unveils new tools to help tackle privacy, security concerns

Google is taking steps to address concerns of its users, with two new resources covering privacy and security.

The My account hub combines privacy and security settings, giving users of Google services quick access to settings and tools to keep data safe, protect privacy and control your information that is used within Google's services. That includes what data is shared between Google's own services, such as location data within Google Maps that helps tailor information to Google Now, or web searches that could be used to tailor ads to your interests. It can also be used to run a privacy and security checkup to take users through step by step guides.

The second resource, google.com/privacy, answers questions on what data Google collects, how it uses it and how it delivers certain services such as advertising and spam filtering while also keeping user data safe.

"When you trust your personal information with us, you should expect powerful controls that keep it safe and private as well as useful answers to your questions when you have them," said Guemmy Kim, Google's product manager for account controls and settings. "Today's launches are just the latest in our on-going efforts to protect you and your data on Google. There's much more to come, and we look forward to your feedback."

Google also announced at its developer conference that the new version of Android, Android M, would give users more control over app permissions for their smartphones.