14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft does say that users can disable data collection features in Windows 10 at any time from the Settings screen, but the simple fact that the operating system comes with all these services turned on might actually be a problem in certain countries across the world.
In Canada, for example, local authorities are looking into Windows 10 to make sure that it complies with the country’s legislation and that no privacy violation occurs.
The news comes via MetroNews Canada, which also explains that, in the country, software companies need users’ consent in order to collection and use any personal information. More sensitive data requests more explicit consent, the source adds.
And given that Windows 10 can collect names, addresses, typed words, and voice commands users give to Cortana, the operating system can easily fall in this category, so authorities are now trying to determine whether or not it infringes Canada's Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act.
No investigation started yet
But it’s worth noting that Tobi Cohen, a spokeswoman for federal privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien, has clearly pointed out that, for the moment, there’s no claim against Windows 10 for privacy violation, but they’re only looking into how the operating system treats users’ privacy and what data is sent with or without consent.
Users can disable Windows 10 data collection features before actually installing the operating system, and if they decide to let some of these options enabled, there’s a software license agreement that explains everything about how tracking services work.
So at first glance, Microsoft can hardly be accused of violating privacy laws, but the problem actually resides somewhere else.
Windows 10 appears to be phoning home even when the user manually disables all data tracking services, and there’s no doubt that this needs to be looked into by privacy watchdogs. If this is true, Redmond might be dragged into another privacy scandal unless it takes care of Windows 10 data collection.