Microsoft responds to privacy concerns in Windows 10

Microsoft has explained why it collects all kinds of device and usage data in Windows 10. According to the company, the data is used to quickly roll out updates and for personalization, but the collected information cannot be traced back to individuals.

With a blog post, Microsoft responded to the claims of privacy violations that Windows 10 has been experiencing for some time. The Redmond-based company wants to emphasize that the purpose of collecting usage data is to make the operating system better, and that users remain in control of what exactly is collected at all times.

Specifically, Microsoft states that only anonymous data is collected, including the device ID, the type of device being used, and crash data if something is not working. With that data available, Microsoft wants to be able to roll out software updates more quickly. The company also promises that precautions have been taken to prevent the collection of personal data and that data will never be used for advertising.

Meanwhile, data is being collected about how people use their Windows 10 devices. For example, information can be used for word prediction and to display information on topics that the user is interested in. Those who do not want usage data to be collected can turn this off, according to Microsoft.

In addition, Microsoft will adjust the default settings for Family Safety; this functionality will by default be more focused on teenagers than on small children. Family Safety allows parents to ‘watch’ with their children, but there were complaints about the amount of data being passed on. The idea is that there is less need for control in teenagers than in small children. Microsoft promises to release new features for business in the future, based on user feedback.

Microsoft has been under fire for some time when it comes to privacy in its new operating system, partly because it has been shown several times that data is exchanged with the company’s servers. For example, the search and information service Cortana is used to collect usage data. Although permission is requested, communication seems to take place with the servers even without permission. Although Microsoft has explained its policy on its blog, specific questions regarding this information exchange have not yet been answered.