Google has announced it has changed its policy on retaining personal data that could be used to identify individual web users and their search habits.

When an individual uses Google's search engine service, data is collected on their searches and which Internet addresses they visit.

Google claims it uses the data to tailor its search tools to match the user's interests, such as providing a search history feature.

Google also has to comply with laws in certain countries that mean it must keep the data from its web server logs for particular periods of time.

However, this practice has in the past come under attack from privacy campaigners who have called it dangerous, arguing that this data could be used to identify individuals and violate their privacy.

Previously, Google planned to store the information it collects indefinitely, but has now decided to anonymize the data after 18-24 months.

Google says it has taken the step to try to convince users and businesses that it is not trying to spy on them and their search habits.

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