US federal authorities demand information about YouTube users from Google

The US federal authorities issued an order to Google to disclose the identities of people who watched certain YouTube videos in January 2013.

Here's What We Know

The request for information includes the names, addresses, phone numbers and activities of account users, as well as the IP addresses of those who did not have an account. This action by the authorities is related to the investigation of a person known as "elonmuskwhm", who is suspected of illegal cryptocurrency trading.

Preliminary reports indicate that undercover agents used links to YouTube videos to collect evidence in a money laundering and illegal currency exchange case. Such actions have sparked outrage among critics who are concerned about the possible violation of privacy and the abuse of power by government agencies.

Google declined to comment on specific details, but stressed its commitment to protecting user privacy.

Source: Engadget