Windows Privacy & Telemetry Documentation

Introduction to Windows Privacy

This section outlines Microsoft's commitment to user privacy in Windows, detailing how diagnostic data is collected, managed, and used to improve the Windows experience. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for both end-users and developers building applications on the Windows platform.

Microsoft strives to be transparent about its data practices. This documentation aims to provide clear and comprehensive information regarding the privacy controls available to users and the policies governing data handling.

Understanding Windows Telemetry Levels

Windows offers several levels of diagnostic data collection, allowing users to choose the amount of information they are comfortable sharing. These levels are designed to balance product improvement with user privacy.

• Security: This is the minimum level required to keep Windows and apps secure. It includes basic information about device security, the Windows Defender Antivirus status, and Malicious Software Removal Tool findings.
• Required: This level includes information necessary to keep Windows and apps running safely and up to date. It also helps troubleshoot problems and improves Windows and app quality. This is the default level.
• Enhanced: This level provides more detailed diagnostic data, including information on how users use Windows and apps, device performance, and app reliability. This data is used to improve Windows and apps.
• Full: This level collects all data necessary to identify and fix problems and improve products. It includes all data from the previous levels, plus more detailed information about device activity, system performance, and memory usage.

Users can adjust these settings through the Windows Settings app under Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & feedback.

The Diagnostic Data Viewer

The Diagnostic Data Viewer (DDV) is a tool that allows users to review the diagnostic data that is being sent from their Windows device to Microsoft. It provides a transparent view of the information collected at the 'Enhanced' and 'Full' telemetry levels.

Key features of the DDV include:

• Viewing collected data: Browse through categories of diagnostic data, such as device metadata, product and service performance, and usage.
• Searching and filtering: Easily find specific data points.
• Understanding data purpose: Information on how specific data helps improve Windows.

The DDV can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store. For more information, refer to the Diagnostic Data Viewer Guide.

Managing Privacy Settings in Windows

Windows provides a centralized hub for managing privacy settings. Users can control various aspects of data collection and usage directly within the Settings app.

Key Privacy Settings Areas:

• General: Advertising ID, letting apps show me personalized ads, etc.
• Location: Location services, location history.
• Camera & Microphone: App permissions for camera and microphone access.
• Notifications: App notifications.
• Account Info: App access to your account info.
• Contacts, Calendar, Phone Calls, Email, Messaging: App access to these personal information types.
• Background Apps: Allowing apps to run in the background.
• App Diagnostics: App-specific diagnostic data.
• Activity History: Managing cloud sync of your activity history.

It is recommended that users regularly review and configure these settings to align with their privacy preferences.

Data Collection and Usage Policies

Microsoft collects diagnostic data to ensure Windows is up-to-date, secure, and performing optimally. This data is used for various purposes, including:

• Troubleshooting and resolving issues.
• Improving the performance, reliability, and security of Windows and related services.
• Developing new features and products.
• Understanding user behavior patterns to enhance user experience.

Microsoft adheres to its Privacy Statement, which provides detailed information on how personal data is collected, processed, and protected.

Privacy Considerations for Developers

Developers building applications for Windows must be mindful of user privacy and adhere to Microsoft's guidelines.

Key Developer Responsibilities:

• Transparency: Clearly inform users about the data your application collects and how it is used.
• Consent: Obtain explicit consent from users before collecting sensitive personal information.
• Data Minimization: Collect only the data that is necessary for your application's functionality.
• Security: Protect any collected user data with appropriate security measures.
• Adherence to Policies: Comply with the Microsoft Store Policies and relevant privacy regulations.

For detailed guidance, consult the Windows App Privacy Guidelines.

Legal and Compliance

Microsoft is committed to complying with all applicable privacy laws and regulations globally, including GDPR, CCPA, and others. The company invests significantly in privacy compliance programs to ensure that its products and services meet these stringent requirements.

For information on data protection agreements and compliance certifications, please refer to the Microsoft Trust Center.