Microsoft to tweak Windows 10 to appease privacy groups

Microsoft is introducing changes to the way it handles user data and telemetry tracking in Windows 10, to appease privacy critics and data protection regulators unhappy with the current approach.

Microsoft attracted a storm of criticism over the extent of the telemetry data collected under the default settings for the Windows 10 upgrade. The decision also prompted an investigation by Swiss data protection commissioner the FDPIC.

In a blog post, Microsoft EVP for Windows and Devices Terry Myerson said the company had heard users' calls for greater control over their data.

In response, Microsoft plans to roll out a software update for Windows 10 designed to allow users to more easily set their preferences and privacy settings. Users will be able to turn off features including location tracking and targeted advertising.

Microsoft will also pare down the data collected under the "Basic" level setting to include only information critical to the operation of Windows, such as whether Windows apps have been kept up to date, as well as the capabilities of a device and basic error reporting.

The company is also introducing a new web-based privacy dashboard that will allow users to see and delete activity data collected by Microsoft including location data, search histories and Cortana Notebook data.

Concurrently with Microsoft's announcement, the FDPIC noted that Microsoft has agreed to globally implement the commissioner's recommendations for improving the transparency of data collection and processing, and has therefore decided there is no need to initiate court proceedings.

Microsoft has agreed to make changes including ensuring there is more information on how long collected data will be stored and on the content of browser, feedback and diagnostic data being collected.

These modifications will be included in the two major Windows 10 software releases planned for this year.

The FDPIC added that it considers the modifications Microsoft has committed to making to be the minimum standard that other companies will need to follow, and will use Microsoft's commitments as a benchmark in assessing future cases.

Image courtesy of Mike Mozart under CC

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