Privacy campaigners decry Google Latitude

WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- A Google computer application that uses GPS to track someone from a phone or desktop computer has come under fire from a privacy group.

Critics say the program, Google Latitude, could be used to spy on unsuspecting users, PC World reported Thursday.

"Many people will see this as a cool technology but the reality is it will be a privacy minefield. I would be concerned about any integrated use across Google services as their security is so poor and it's becoming the world most pervasive system," said Privacy International director Simon Davies.

Announcing the program, a Google official noted the program is voluntary, on both ends.

"Everything about Latitude is opt-in. You not only control exactly who gets to see your location, but you also decide the location that they see," said Google executive Vic Gundotra.

"For instance, let's say you are in Rome. Instead of having your approximate location detected and shared automatically, you can manually set your location for elsewhere -- perhaps a visit to Niagara Falls," he said.