Google denies use of private data

HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT: Google representatives say they're working with authorities to address privacy concerns over its mapping service.

Last month, Google acknowledged it had mistakenly collected data over public Wi-Fi networks in more than 30 countries. Authorities fear the collection may violate privacy laws.

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal held a news conference Monday urging the search engine company to reveal whether it illegally collected data from state personal and business wireless computer networks for the Street View feature.

In an email to The Associated Press, a Google spokeswoman said its Wi-Fi collection and Street View feature, which provides pictures of neighborhoods, are unrelated.

Police in Germany and Australia already have launched their own investigations into the matter.