Google pays $US500 million to Department of Justice

Search giant Google has paid a settlement of $US500 million to the United States Department of Justice, with the Government saying the company allowed Canadian pharmacies to advertise to US buyers.

The DOJ has said in a statement that $US500 million will be handed over in AdWords proceeds.

“Online search engine Google Inc. has agreed to forfeit $500 million for allowing online Canadian pharmacies to place advertisements through its AdWords program targeting consumers in the United States, resulting in the unlawful importation of controlled and non-controlled prescription drugs into the United States,” deputy attorney general James Cole announced in a statement.

“The Department of Justice will continue to hold accountable companies who in their bid for profits violate federal law and put at risk the health and safety of American consumers,” said Deputy Attorney General Cole.

It is unknown whether this is the same issue over which the DOJ is rumoured to be investigating Google. Previous reports have indicated that investigation is about competition in search markets.