If you’re a Windows 10 user it’s very likely you’ve been wondering about the type of data being collected by Microsoft. The company has finally revealed this information as part of its mission to deal with privacy-related criticism and comply with requirements regarding telemetry.
Windows 10 Creators Update Introduces New Privacy Enhancements
As explained by Terry Myerson in a blog post, Microsoft is about to begin rolling out Windows 10 Creators Update to customers. The update is bringing various innovations such as 3D creation but is also planning a set of “privacy enhancements that will be mostly behind the scenes”.
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A long list available on TechNet further reveals the exact type of data collected and sent home by Windows 10 when the user is running the Basic setting: device properties, peripherals, capabilities, app usage, user ID, network, OS information (like name, version, and build), update details, voice, inking and typing, installed applications, and local search activity. In a nutshell, pretty much everything there is to be collected regarding user behavior. Make sure to have a look at the list where all data is grouped in events. In addition, every event generates data which is submitted to Microsoft anonymously. No identification information is collected and data is stored on the company’s server securely.
However, the Windows 10 Creators Update is about to bring forth some changes concerning privacy.
For the first time, we have published a complete list of the diagnostic data collected at the Basic level. Individual data points that relate to a specific item or event are collected together and called Events. These are further organized into diagnostic areas. We are also providing a detailed summary of the data we collect from users at both Basic and Full levels of diagnostics.
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Myerson also highlights the fact that his company only collects information needed to keep Windows 10 devices secure and up-to-date. He also adds that by going full mode on telemetry by selecting the Full telemetry level users can help Microsoft improve their services.
Finally, the Creators Update is about to bring in new privacy controls. Users who are updating from the Anniversary update should see the new features when the install is finalized.
Milena Dimitrova
An inspired writer and content manager who has been with SensorsTechForum since the project started. A professional with 10+ years of experience in creating engaging content. Focused on user privacy and malware development, she strongly believes in a world where cybersecurity plays a central role. If common sense makes no sense, she will be there to take notes. Those notes may later turn into articles! Follow Milena @Milenyim
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