Summary:
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Public Accusation
Microsoft has publicly accused Google of orchestrating “shadow campaigns” in Europe aimed at undermining Microsoft’s reputation with regulators. -
Astroturfing Claims
In a blog post, Microsoft lawyer Rima Alaily stated that Google engaged a firm to form a deceptive group intended to mislead competition authorities and the public. -
Recruiting European Cloud Providers
Alaily revealed that Google allegedly recruited several European cloud companies to act as the face of this coalition, obscuring Google’s financial involvement. -
Heightened Regulatory Scrutiny
The feud comes as Google faces intensified regulatory scrutiny both in Europe and the U.S., where it is currently involved in a major antitrust trial. -
Coalition and Backing
Alaily mentioned that Google hired the advisory firm DGA Group to establish the Open Cloud Coalition, which is purportedly designed to criticize Microsoft’s practices in Europe.