20+ Windows Vista Features and Services Harvest User Data for Microsoft

Oracle

Yes, while you're enjoying the elegance of Aero, Vista is busy vacuuming up lots of information about you: http://news.softpedia.com/news/Forget-about-the-WGA-20-Windows-Vista-Features-and-Services-Harvest-User-Data-for-Microsoft-58752.shtml

Typical MS.

tallus

I'm glad I use Linux after seeing that ****e.

CptSternn

It could be worse. Your antivirus company could be putting in backdoors so the US government can track your every move, and take a look at your hard drive whenever they see fit...

http://news.com.com/Security+firms+on+police+spyware%2C+in+their+own+words/2100-7348_3-6196990.html

aidan_walsh

Sensationalist crap.

The Redmond company emphasized numerous times the fact that all information collected is not used to identify or contact users. But could it? Oh yes! All you have to know is that Microsoft could come knocking on your door as soon as you boot Windows Vista for the first time if you consider the system’s computer information harvested. Microsoft will get your "Internet protocol address, the type of operating system, browser and name and version of the software you are using, and the language code of the device where you installed the software." But all they really need is your IP address.

Bull. There is no way that MS will be able to "knock on your door" using any of that information, without having to go through a third party (most likely your ISP). Given this, I'm surprised they haven't listed evry web browser on the planet as giving away personal information used to identify you any time you go to microsoft.com.

Many of the items listed make no sense. The Network Connectivity Status Icon? Plug and Play devices? The Control Panel? The Compatability tab? WTF? Do these people realise that in order to actually be able to use the computer you have to enter inofrmation from time to time? And look, much of the information being sent has to be done by your consent. Agree now, cry later.

Connecting to online help sends data? Of course, by design to be able to find a solution faster. Don't like it, use Google instead. Besides, Micorosft have long been collecting crash data to help developers solve problems with their applications. Where was the outcry over that?

Heap of rubbish.