If you have downloaded the latest Windows 10 Technical Preview released by Microsoft earlier this month, you might be interested to learn that Microsoft may be collecting more data than you though about your use behind the scenes.
According to the Microsoft Windows 10 privacy policy, Microsoft is collecting data such as text inputted in the new Win 10 operating system. Together with all the details of any files on your system, voice input and program information. The Privacy Policy reads :
“Microsoft collects information about you, your devices, applications and networks, and your use of those devices, applications and networks. Examples of data we collect include your name, email address, preferences and interests; browsing, search and file history; phone call and SMS data; device configuration and sensor data; and application usage.”
Microsoft might be collecting a little more than just the feedback submitted by members of its Insider Program, using software along the lines of keylogger utilities say some developers. Although Microsoft might be collecting the data to improve auto correct within the system with no bad intensions.
Either way if data is being collected by Microsoft, many users will be a little unhappy with them capturing all the text being entered by users using the new Windows 10 operating system. Microsoft’s response to the Windows 10 keylogger accusations took the form of :
“The Windows 10 Technical Preview is a pre-release build of the OS designed for testing, evaluation and feedback. We use a variety of security technologies and procedures to help protect your personal information from unauthorized access, use or disclosure.
For example, all data sent from the Windows 10 Technical Preview to Microsoft is encrypted in transit and we store the personal information you provide on computer systems that have limited access and are in controlled facilities.
Once you download Tech Preview and become a member of the Windows Insider Program, you provide information about how you use the product, including what devices you use it with, along with your detailed feedback to make adjustments before we launch the product. “
It is also important to know that the data being collected by Microsoft during the current Windows 10 Technical Preview period will not be collected when the full consumer operating system officially launches sometime during 2015.