14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft pushed Windows 10 build 10525 to fast ring insiders a few days ago and since this release is part of the testing program started by the company in October 2014, feedback is all the software giant wants to receive in exchange for you to get early access to preview builds.
So because data collection is a must, build 10525 reset some privacy settings in Windows 10 and switches the data collection configuration to “full.”
While this might sound terrible for many of you, it's not, and what's even more important is that you basically agreed with it when you registered to be an insider. The Windows Insider program is all about feedback and if you block Microsoft from getting it, there's no reason to continue it.
What's the full mode?
In Windows 10, Microsoft is offering several diagnostic and usage data modes that allows you to send specific information to the company to troubleshoot problems, but also to help it improve its products.
There are three different modes, as it follows:
Basic – includes what Microsoft calls vital data for the operation of Windows, such as basic error reporting. You can thus receive fixes via Windows Updates and malicious software protection improvements, but the company warns that “some apps and features may not work correctly or at all.”
Enhanced – includes everything from the Basic mode and allows Microsoft to collect information about how frequently or how long you use apps in Windows, diagnostic information, app crashes information, and measure device reliability.
Full – includes pretty much everything and allows Microsoft to collect additional information from your device, such as system file and memory snapshots.
Who gets this information?
Obviously, Microsoft recommends everyone to stick to the full mode, but if you install build 10525 and whatever version comes after that, there's no option to change it. So you must agree with it, and it's supposed that you do because you already joined the program.
But the most important question is who sees the collected info? Microsoft says that its employees, contractors, vendors, and partners can access “portions of information” in order to improve their or Microsoft's products.
So yes, if you joined the Windows Insider program, some data will be collected from your computer and you can't change that. If you don't agree, there's always the option to leave the program and get back to 10240.