Windows 10 Gains New Privacy Features In Latest Windows Insider Build
Privacy has become a major concern for computer users, so Microsoft has announced that it has new features that are rolling out right now to Windows Insiders and will become part of the next major update for Windows 10. These new features are rolling out ahead of Data Privacy Day and include the Diagnostic Data Viewer and an updated Privacy Dashboard.
Microsoft's Marisa Rogers, WDG Privacy Officer, wrote, "Our commitment is to be fully transparent on the diagnostic data collected from your Windows devices, how it is used, and to provide you with increased control over that data. This is all part of our commitment to increase your trust and confidence in our products and services."
The Privacy Dashboard will now allow users to see and manage more data that is associated with their Microsoft account. The Windows Diagnostic Viewer is separate a feature, and allows the user to see, search, and act on their diagnostic data.
Data presented in the Diagnostic Data Viewer
- Common Data, like the Operating System’s name, the Version, Device ID, Device Class, Diagnostic level selection and so on.
- Device Connectivity and Configuration such as device properties and capabilities, preferences and settings, peripherals, and device network information.
- Product and Service Performance data that show device health, performance and reliability data, movie consumption functionality on the device and device file queries. It’s important to note that this functionality is not intended to capture user viewing or, listening habits.
- Product and Service Usage data includes details about the usage of the device, operating system, applications, and services.
- Software Setup and Inventory such as installed applications and install history, device update information.
The Microsoft Privacy Dashboard has been updated and has a new Activity History page that gives users an easy way to see and navigate the data that is saved in a Microsoft account. Users will be able to manage data and change what is collected by adjusting privacy settings on the device or in the browser.
Microsoft has plans to add even more features in the coming months with the following additions:
- View and manage media consumption data, as well as product and service activity on the Activity History page
- Export for any of the data you see on the dashboard
- Delete specific items to allow for greater individual control
Windows Insiders will be able to explore all the new features and get an early look at other changes and settings that will be offered in the coming weeks. Microsoft is also asking the insiders to share feedback on the new features.
Rogers wrote, "Your data privacy will continue to be a priority towards making Windows 10 the best and most secure experience. From improving in-product control, transparency and information about your privacy, while providing a complete list of the diagnostic data collected at the Basic level, among others, to launching the Microsoft Privacy Dashboard and the enhancements we’ve made since then, we want you to be able to easily see and manage your activity data online across multiple Microsoft services."
