Microsoft to update Windows 10 privacy policy, will be more transparent with data collection

There have been privacy concerns surrounding Windows 10 ever since its launch, prompting complaints not just from users but from government watchdogs as well, particularly here in Europe. However, it looks like Microsoft is finally prepared to do something about it, starting off with an update to its privacy statement and being transparent about the data it collects within Windows 10.

In a Windows blog post today, Microsoft explained that for the first time ever, it will be publishing a “complete list of the diagnostic data collected at the basic level”. However, Microsoft will also be “providing a detailed summary of the data” it collects from users at both basic and full levels of diagnostics.

In preparation for the upcoming Creators Update, Microsoft has been reassessing what data is strictly necessary at the basic level for diagnostic purposes to keep its services secure. As a result, the company has managed to halve the amount of events and overall volume of data it collects at the ‘basic level'. With that in mind, we should see Microsoft collecting less data overall from users.

The Creators Update will also introduce new controls for privacy conscious users, allowing them to choose between basic level and full level data collection.

On top of that, going forward Microsoft will be providing better controls for its privacy conscious users. This way, you will be able to pick between basic and full data collection. More specific details will be published soon regarding Microsoft's updated privacy policy but for now, it seems that the company is open to making necessary changes. However, only time will tell whether this will be enough to appease EU regulators and customers.

KitGuru Says: Microsoft's data collection practises within Windows 10 have been a point of controversy for a long time. However, it looks like Microsoft is finally going to address the issue. However, until we get a more detailed breakdown of the policy, it will be hard to tell whether these changes will be enough.

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