Microsoft Azure Privacy Statement

Last Updated: October 26, 2023

This privacy statement describes the personal information that Microsoft collects and processes in connection with the Microsoft Azure cloud computing services.

On This Page

1. Introduction

Microsoft is committed to protecting your privacy. This statement explains how Microsoft Azure collects, uses, and shares your personal data. Microsoft Azure is a comprehensive suite of cloud computing services that allows businesses and developers to build, deploy, and manage applications and services through Microsoft-managed data centers.

We understand that the data you entrust to us in Azure is critical to your operations. We are dedicated to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of your data.

2. Data We Collect

The data we collect through Azure services can be categorized as follows:

  • Account and Subscription Data: Information provided when you sign up for Azure, such as your name, email address, billing information, and subscription details.
  • Service Usage Data: Information about how you use Azure services, including the types of services used, usage patterns, performance data, and logs. This data is essential for service operation, improvement, and billing.
  • Content Data: The data you store and process using Azure services, such as virtual machine data, databases, files, and application code. Microsoft processes this data solely as instructed by you or your organization.
  • Technical and Diagnostic Data: Information related to the performance and stability of Azure services, including error reports, crash dumps, and diagnostic logs. This helps us identify and resolve issues.
  • Support and Communication Data: Information you provide when contacting Microsoft support or engaging with our customer service, including communication transcripts and feedback.

3. How We Use Your Data

Microsoft uses the data collected to:

  • Provide, operate, maintain, and improve Azure services.
  • Bill and charge for Azure services.
  • Respond to your inquiries and provide customer support.
  • Ensure the security and integrity of our services and data.
  • Comply with legal obligations and enforce our agreements.
  • Communicate important service updates and information.
  • Develop new services and features.

Microsoft does not use your Content Data for advertising or marketing purposes.

4. Data Sharing and Disclosure

Microsoft may share your personal data in the following circumstances:

  • With Your Consent: We will share your personal data with companies, organizations, or individuals outside of Microsoft when we have your consent to do so.
  • With Service Providers: We engage third-party service providers to process data on our behalf. These providers are bound by strict confidentiality obligations and are not permitted to use the data for their own purposes.
  • For Legal Reasons: We may disclose your personal data if required by law, such as in response to a court order or subpoena, or to protect the rights, property, or safety of Microsoft, our customers, or the public.
  • In Business Transfers: If Microsoft is involved in a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, we will continue to ensure the confidentiality of your personal data and give affected users notice before personal data is transferred or becomes subject to a different privacy statement.

5. Security of Your Data

Microsoft implements robust physical, administrative, and technical safeguards to protect your personal data from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. These measures include:

  • Encryption of data at rest and in transit.
  • Strict access controls and identity management.
  • Regular security audits and assessments.
  • Secure data center infrastructure.
  • Compliance with industry-recognized security standards and certifications.

While we strive to protect your data, no method of transmission over the internet or method of electronic storage is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Your Choices and Rights

You have choices regarding the data you share and how it is used. You can manage your privacy settings through your Azure account portal. Depending on your jurisdiction, you may have certain rights concerning your personal data, including the right to access, correct, or delete your data.

For more information on managing your data and privacy settings, please visit the Azure Trust Center.

7. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy statement or Microsoft's privacy practices regarding Azure, please contact us:

Microsoft Privacy Response Center
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 98052-6399
USA

You can also submit a privacy inquiry through our online privacy inquiry form.