Microsoft details all the data it collects in Windows 10
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Microsoft is set to start rolling out the Windows 10 Creators Update next week. Ahead of the release, Microsoft is taking several steps to help users who are concerned about their privacy in Windows 10. The company today detailed all the data it is collecting with Windows 10, as well as some of the other privacy related enhancements that are coming with the Creators Update.
Firstly, Microsoft has provided a fairly detailed list of diagnostic data that is being collected by Windows 10. The company says the diagnostic data is being used to improve the security of Windows 10. More importantly, the data is being used to provide app suggestions and other relevant tips to users in Windows 10. Of course, some users may have issues with this which is why Microsoft is making it a lot easier to disable this from the get-go in the Windows 10 Creators Update.
As Microsoft previously detailed, the Windows 10 Creators Update will allow users to easily disable some features in the OS during the initial setup. For instance, you will be able to turn off the app suggestions and other relevant ads, disable collection of diagnostics data, and more. Microsoft is also providing users with short descriptions for each of the different options that will help users identify whether they want to disable a feature or not.
But there is a tiny catch here: Microsoft is not going to let you completely disable collection of diagnostics data. Instead, you will be able to send data on two different levels: Full, or Basic. At the basic level, Microsoft will collect considerably less amount of data that will help fix issues on your PC. But at the full level, Microsoft will collect diagnostic data from your browser, apps, typing data and etc. to improve its products and services. You can find the full list of data collected by Microsoft at the basic level here.
In a statement, Microsoft’s EVP of its Windows and Devices group stated:
“Our commitment to you is that we only collect data at the Basic level that is necessary to keep your Windows 10 device secure and up to date. For customers who choose the Full level, we use diagnostic data to improve Windows 10 for everyone and deliver more personalized experiences for you where you choose to let us do so. Our hope is this information will help you be more informed about the data we collect and use, enabling you to make informed choices.”
Microsoft has certainly been under a lot of pressure when it comes to privacy concerns in Windows 10, mostly because of false reports online. The company seems to be heading in the right direction in addressing these concerns, and it will likely continue to do so with future updates to Windows 10.
