Tuesday 1 September 2015

Update Windows 7 And 8.1, Allows Microsoft To Collect Additional Data


Microsoft is again under fire for collecting data from Windows users. Last week, the software giant has published several non-security related updates that add the "telemetry tracking service." Through this service, which also exists in Windows 10, additional system information is sent to Microsoft, reports gHacks.

It's about KB3068708, KB3022345, KB3075249 and KB3080149. The last two updates are optional but KB3068708 is a recommended update. By default Windows install this update whatsoever. Sending the data seems to only happen when users on Microsoft's Customer Experience Improvement Program (CEIP) join in, so let Ars Technica know. However, this is done by default during the installation of Microsoft Office.

What data is accurately collected and sent to Microsoft is unclear. If CEIP is disabled, there appears little data to go to Microsoft's servers. Disabling CEIP requires different actions. Critics say Microsoft should make it easier for users to opt out of this type of data collection programs and clarifies what information is collected.

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