Australian authorities are launching a criminal investigation into Google's collection of data from wireless networks, The New York Times reports. The focus will be on whether the company violated the telecommunications interceptions act, explained Attorney General Robert McClelland, noting, "my department thought there were issues of substance that were raised that require police investigation." News of the investigation spurred allegations that Australia is targeting Google over its opposition to Internet filter plans, but Communications Minister Stephen Conroy countered that the issue is with "giant companies...who don't seem to believe the Australian laws should apply to them." Google, meanwhile, has responded that the incident was a mistake, and the company is "talking to the appropriate authorities to answer any questions they have." (Registration may be required to access this story.)
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