Google starts encrypting search data to protect users from NSA snooping

Google has started encrypting its search data to protect users from surveillance by state intelligence outfits like the US National Security Agency (NSA) as well as hackers.

Google said that the PRISM revelations last year prompted it to rethink its privacy methods, so it has started encrypting search data using the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol.

The Washington Post reported the change, and a Google spokesman confirmed the news and sent The INQUIRER a statement saying, "The revelations of this past summer underscored our need to strengthen our networks. Among the many improvements we've made in recent months is to encrypt Google Search by default around the world.