A federal judge in Virginia has ruled that Google has illegally created a monopoly in the online advertising market, siding with the U.S. Justice Department in a major antitrust case. This decision could significantly impact how websites make money and how online ads are managed.
District Judge Leonie Brinkema found that Google misused its power by combining its ad server and ad exchange technologies, giving it unfair control over the $31 billion sector that connects advertisers with websites. The ruling may lead to Google being forced to sell off parts of its advertising business.
This is the third recent legal blow for Google. Previously, courts ruled against the company’s dominance in its app store and its search engine practices. Together, these cases show growing legal pressure on Google and other tech giants.
Google responded by saying it disagrees with the ruling, especially the part involving its publisher tools, and plans to appeal. The company insists its ad tech is affordable and helps businesses grow. However, the judge concluded that Google’s actions have hurt competitors, publishers, and web users by limiting choice and competition.
This case is part of a larger effort by U.S. regulators to rein in the power of Big Tech. Other companies, including Meta, Amazon, and Apple, are also facing increased scrutiny.
