The spotlight is once again on a very debatable topic, how long could or rather should Google retain its user data?

The search giant has reportedly now taken a call to retain its user data in its server logs for no longer than 18 months...

Seen as a move to address issues raised by the European advisory body, Article 29, on Google's possible breach of EU's laws on data retention policies.

The EU (European Union) had earlier dashed-off a letter to Google, asking the latter for an explanation as to why it stores personal user information for as long as two years, and whether it has taken all necessary steps to protect the essentially 'sensitive' information regarding millions of its users.

In response to EU's letter, Google has now said it will retain personal identifiable search data of users in its log servers for not over 18 months. After which the information shall be made anonymous.

Google Counsel for Global Piracy, Peter Fleischer, expressed the view that the new company policy understands and reflects the concerns of the working party.

Meanwhile, the EU has lauded Google's move. Welcoming Google's decision, Franco Frattini, Justice and Security Commissioner of the EU, said it is good to see Google trying to meet the expectations of others.

Besides, if reports are to be believed, Google has taken on a lead role in defining a global standard for rules that govern online retention of consumer data. However, other players in the field such as Amazon, AOL, Apple, eBay, and MySpace have not been so forthcoming with their views on the limits to be imposed on consumer data retention...