The Story
The following article from BGR (click here) discusses the recent revelation that Windows 10 discreetly asks for their user’s permission to collect their data. According to the article, stated in their privacy policy, Microsoft 10 asks for permission to store and send data to the company, unbeknownst to the user. Unfortunately, these terms of conditions are usually ignored by customers. “If you open a file, we may collect information about the file, the application used to open the file, and how long it takes any use of it…Examples of data we collect include your name, email address, preferences and interests; browsing, search and file history; phone call and SMS data; device configuration and sensor data; and application usage”(Smith). It is stated in the article that Microsoft claims to use such data to improve their operating systems.
Why does this matter?
Have you ever googled a product or a service and a few webpages later you find an advertisement somewhat related to that particular topic? In our growing technology-reliant society, it has become apparent that the lines between privacy and and public information has grown thin, or disappeared altogether. In addition, this isn’t the first time a company has faced accusations of invading an individual’s privacy. There are many cases, such as the allocations against Google’s Street View Cars, Facebook taking information to customize advertisements, and phone companies storing data of their users (including location, phone calls and text messages). In some cases, receiving information about your customers is helpful, in the sense of what demographic does the company attract, how should they market themselves to attract more customers (extremely important for business plans) However, in my personal opinion, people don’t realize the type of information can be stored and how individuals from the outside can use that specific information. For example, JP Morgan’s hack a couple of days ago, in which millions of passwords and other secure pieces of data was obtained by third parties, and in extreme cases can lead to identity theft. What is necessary in this situation is control, at least control of the information received by second and third parties. In Microsoft’s case, it is perfectly legal for them to take information from their users once they have been given consensus (as it was stated in the terms and condition page). However, I believe that it is both at the faults of the consumer and producer. The consumers rarely read the terms and condition document while they should as it is a legal and binding contract. The producers, on the other hand, shouldn’t use such ‘under the table’ methods of retrieving such information. Big Brother shouldn’t be watching you constantly, he should only see what you wish to share with the world.
Works Cited
Smith, Chris. “Windows 10 Preview Lets Microsoft Collect Private Data in Frightening Ways.” BGR. BGR Media, 03 Oct. 2014. Web. 04 Oct. 2014. <http://bgr.com/2014/10/03/windows-10-privacy-policy/>.