Google's plan to round up all its users' account data on various platforms and make it available for targeted advertising doesn't go over well with Washington's Attorney General.

Today Rob McKenna and 35 other state attorneys general outlined concerns about changes to Google’s privacy policy in a letter to Google CEO Larry Page. The privacy changes, which take effect March 1, could put consumers at a greater risk of identity theft and fraud, they say.

"Consumers should have the choice of opting in, rather than being forced to opt out, before they give out so much personal information," McKenna says. "Those using Google’s search engine, Google Maps, YouTube and about half of all smartphones will be among those most affected. Their whereabouts, calling, buying and Web browsing habits will be tracked for commercial uses—and there’s no easy way to say no, other than ditching your phone and most of Google’s other products."

Under the new privacy policy, Google gives itself the freedom to combine users’ personal information from their Web browsing, along with their interactions with all other popular Google products, such as YouTube, Google Docs, and the Google calendar.

There actually could be a benefit to consumers to like to have all their Google accounts linked and easily accessible. But, if all this data is in one handy place, that could make a "tantalizing target" for hackers and privacy thieves.

Google explains their privacy changes on their blog here. They make it clear, "If you’re signed in, we may combine information you've provided from one service with information from other services. In short, we’ll treat you as a single user across all our products, which will mean a simpler, more intuitive Google experience."

The attorneys general have requested a meeting with Google's CEO, as soon as possible. Mr. Page has been asked to reply to their letter later than Wednesday, February 29.

By Linda Thomas

Photo by Beck Diefenbach / Reuters