Google Hit by Tougher Scrutiny From UK’s Antitrust Watchdog

Google, the tech giant owned by Alphabet Inc., has been designated as having a "strategic market status" by the UK's antitrust watchdog. This designation subjects Google's online search and advertising business to closer scrutiny by the regulatory body. The move is part of the UK's efforts to increase oversight of dominant tech companies and ensure fair competition in the digital market. The strategic market status designation gives the watchdog more powers to investigate Google's practices and potentially impose remedies if any anti-competitive behavior is found. The decision comes as governments worldwide are grappling with the growing influence and market power of tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Amazon. The UK's decision to subject Google to tougher scrutiny reflects the ongoing global debate on how to effectively regulate these companies and address concerns over their dominance in the digital landscape.