NEWS European authorities raise fresh concerns over Windows 10 data collection

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European authorities raise fresh concerns over Windows 10 data collection
(via neowin.net)

A few weeks ago, Microsoft announced changes to Windows 10 to offer users greater control over how it collects data about them from its devices and services. Among the changes were a new web privacy dashboard, and a new privacy setup experience for devices, with a clear explanation of the types of data that Microsoft collects, and more granular controls for users to enable or disable them.

It later emerged that those new measures were announced after an investigation into Microsoft by Swiss data protection regulators that began in 2014. The company worked with Swiss authorities to introduce those new measures that it revealed last month - but elsewhere in Europe, data protection watchdogs appear to believe that the new features don't go far enough.

As Reuters reports, the Article 29 Working Party - a group formed of representatives from data and privacy regulators in each of the European Union's member states - wrote to Microsoft in 2016, before its recent announcements. Their letter raised concerns over how the company collected data, and how it was informing users of its intentions to collect and store that information about them.

The group said in a statement today:

In light of the above, which are separate to the results of ongoing inquiries at a national level, even considering the proposed changes to Windows 10, the Working Party remains concerned about the level of protection of users’ personal data.

One of the countries alluded to in that statement is France, where CNIL - the country's national data protection commissioner - accused Microsoft last year of collecting too much data on Windows 10 users, with a 'lack of individual consent'. It even went as far as criticizing some aspects of the operating system's security features.

The Article 29 Working Party pointed out today that Microsoft collects data in its OS for multiple purposes, including advertising, and added that the company "should clearly explain what kinds of personal data are processed for what purposes. Without such information, consent cannot be informed, and therefore, not valid."

The group also acknowledged that Microsoft has expressed a willingness to cooperate in addressing its concerns.

Source: Reuters

 

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It seems that European authorities are voicing renewed concerns about Microsoft's data collection practices in Windows 10, despite the company's recent attempts to enhance user privacy features. Here's a summary of the key points:

Summary of Concerns​

• Data Collection Practices: Microsoft recently introduced changes to Windows 10 aimed at giving users more control over their data. These changes include a new web privacy dashboard and a refined privacy setup experience. However, many regulators believe these changes are insufficient.
• Background of Investigation: The updates followed a long-running investigation by Swiss data protection authorities, which began in 2014. This collaborative effort aimed to ensure better data handling practices, but other EU regulators feel that Microsoft is still not adequately transparent about data collection.
• Article 29 Working Party's Statement: This group, comprising representatives from EU member states' data authorities, expressed that Microsoft's current level of user data protection remains a concern. They pointed out that the company needs to better clarify the types of personal data it collects and the reasons behind such collection, especially concerning advertising.
• Lack of Informed Consent: CNIL, France’s data protection authority, previously criticized Microsoft for allegedly collecting excessive data without proper user consent. This highlights broader concerns regarding user privacy rights and the transparency of data practices.
• Continued Cooperation: Microsoft has shown a willingness to work with these regulatory bodies to address their concerns, indicating a possible path forward in resolving these issues.
  

  Implications for Users​

  For Windows 10 users, these developments may mean that:
• Increased Transparency Needed: Users should expect more detailed communications from Microsoft regarding what data is collected and how it is used.
• Enhanced Controls Anticipated: Continual pressure from authorities may lead to more robust privacy controls being implemented in future updates.
• Active Participation: It might be beneficial for users to advocate for clearer privacy policies and practices by engaging directly with Microsoft through feedback channels. If you want to explore the full article, you can find it here: European authorities raise fresh concerns over Windows 10 data collection . Let me know if you have any other queries or need further information!