There is an article in the Toronto Star (Aug1-05) in regards
to WGA titled 'Microsoft peaks into your closet'. In part the
article states:
"To verify that you have a legitimate copy, all Microsoft has to
do is glance around your computer's living room, so to speak. There
no need to go snooping through the drawers. By simply matching the
"product key" stored on your computer with the product you have, Microsoft
can tell whether it is genuine or not.
But under a new policy, Microsoft has decided to hunt through your
computer for alot more than a valid product key.
Among other things, Microsoft now records the make and model of your
computer, all your hardware devices, your region and language settings,
a code that uniquely identifies your computer, your Internet address,
and even the name, revision number and revision date of your computer's
BIOS or basic input-output system."
Microsoft claims that it does not collect any personally identifying
information, but this article indicates they do not live up to that
assurance.
Is this accurate? Is our privacy at risk?
to WGA titled 'Microsoft peaks into your closet'. In part the
article states:
"To verify that you have a legitimate copy, all Microsoft has to
do is glance around your computer's living room, so to speak. There
no need to go snooping through the drawers. By simply matching the
"product key" stored on your computer with the product you have, Microsoft
can tell whether it is genuine or not.
But under a new policy, Microsoft has decided to hunt through your
computer for alot more than a valid product key.
Among other things, Microsoft now records the make and model of your
computer, all your hardware devices, your region and language settings,
a code that uniquely identifies your computer, your Internet address,
and even the name, revision number and revision date of your computer's
BIOS or basic input-output system."
Microsoft claims that it does not collect any personally identifying
information, but this article indicates they do not live up to that
assurance.
Is this accurate? Is our privacy at risk?