Microsoft Privacy Statement

Introduction

Welcome to Microsoft. This Privacy Statement describes the personal data that Microsoft collects, how we process it, and your choices regarding your data when you use Microsoft products and services.

This statement applies to Microsoft products and services that display or link to this statement, including Microsoft websites, apps, and services like Office, Windows, Xbox, and Microsoft Azure.

We encourage you to read this statement thoroughly. If you have questions, please contact us using the details provided at the end of this statement.

Data We Collect

Microsoft collects data to operate effectively and provide you with the best experiences with our products and services.

1. Data You Provide Directly

This includes:

• Account Information: When you create a Microsoft account, we ask for personal information, such as your name, email address, phone number, and date of birth.
• Payment Information: If you make purchases, we collect payment information, such as your credit card number and billing address.
• Communications: When you communicate with us, such as through customer support or feedback forms, we collect information you provide.
• Content: Data you create or upload, such as documents, photos, and videos stored in services like OneDrive or transmitted through Outlook.

2. Data We Collect Automatically

This includes:

• Usage Data: Information about how you use our products and services, including features used, pages visited, and time spent.
• Device Data: Information about your device, such as hardware model, operating system version, unique device identifiers, and mobile network information.
• Location Data: We may collect location data from your device, which can be precise or imprecise.
• Cookies and Similar Technologies: We use cookies and similar technologies to collect and store information when you visit a Microsoft website or use a Microsoft service.

3. Data from Third-Party Sources

We may also obtain data from third parties, such as:

• Publicly Available Sources: Information available in public records or social media.
• Partners: Information from partners with whom we offer co-branded services or engage in joint marketing activities.

How We Use Your Data

Microsoft uses the data we collect for the following purposes:

1. To Provide and Improve Services

• To process your transactions and deliver the services you have requested.
• To troubleshoot problems, update software, and improve the performance and usability of our products and services.
• To personalize your experience, such as recommending content or features based on your usage.

2. To Communicate with You

• To send you important service updates, security alerts, and other administrative messages.
• To respond to your inquiries and provide customer support.
• To inform you about new products, services, and offers that may be of interest to you.

3. To Secure and Protect Our Systems

• To protect the security and integrity of our products, services, and customers.
• To detect and prevent fraud, abuse, and other harmful activity.

4. For Research and Development

• To conduct research and development for new products and services.
• To analyze trends and usage patterns to inform our business decisions.

Your Choices and Control

You have choices regarding the personal data Microsoft collects and how it is used.

1. Accessing and Managing Your Data

You can access, review, and update your personal information through your Microsoft account dashboard at account.microsoft.com.

2. Communication Preferences

You can manage your email and communication preferences through your Microsoft account settings. You can also opt out of marketing communications.

3. Cookies and Tracking

You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings. For more information on how we use cookies, please refer to our Cookie Statement.

4. Data Deletion

You can request the deletion of your Microsoft account and associated data. Please visit your Microsoft account closure page for more information.

Sharing Your Data

Microsoft does not sell your personal data. We share your data only as described in this statement or when we have your consent.

• With Your Consent: We may share your data with your consent or at your direction.
• Service Providers: We engage third-party service providers to help us operate our business and provide services. These providers are contractually obligated to protect your data.
• Legal Requirements: We may disclose your data if required by law, regulation, or legal process.
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your data may be transferred as part of the transaction.

Security of Your Data

Microsoft is committed to protecting the security of your personal data. We use a variety of security technologies and procedures to help protect your personal data from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.

Children's Privacy

Microsoft products and services are generally intended for individuals aged 13 and older. If you are under the applicable age of digital consent, you may not create a Microsoft account without parental consent.

Changes to This Statement

We may update this Privacy Statement from time to time. We will post any changes on this page and update the "Last Updated" date at the beginning of the statement. We encourage you to review this statement periodically.

Contact Us

If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Statement or Microsoft's privacy practices, please contact us: