Microsoft’s recent announcements at Build 2024 have generated significant buzz, especially regarding the controversial AI-powered ‘Recover’ feature in Windows 11. The Recall feature has sparked concerns about privacy, particularly among Windows 11 users who own Copilot+ PCs with the necessary hardware. Recall records PC usage by taking screenshots every two seconds, allowing for advanced natural language-based search capabilities to review past usage.
The constant stream of background screenshots generated by Recall has raised privacy concerns, leading to scrutiny from the UK-based privacy watchdog, the ICO. The ICO is currently investigating the feature to understand the safeguards in place to protect user privacy.
In terms of security measures, Microsoft has assured users that recovery occurs locally, with data stored on the PC and not sent to the cloud or Microsoft servers. Users have the option to manually delete snapshots, adjust retention times, pause, or disable recall entirely. Additionally, users can block Recall from accessing specific apps or websites for added control.
Despite these security measures, questions remain about potential vulnerabilities, especially in the event of malware compromising a PC or theft. Hackers or thieves could access a user’s Recall screenshots, potentially exposing sensitive information like banking details or passwords. Chief security engineer Muhammad Yahya Patel emphasized the risks posed by the accumulation of personal data in a single location.
The ongoing concerns surrounding Recall raise questions about the need for more robust security measures and user control options. The ICO’s investigation will provide further insight into Microsoft’s AI-powered feature and its implications for user privacy and security.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Recall underscores the importance of balancing innovation with privacy and security considerations. As Microsoft navigates the feedback and scrutiny surrounding the feature, users must weigh the potential benefits of enhanced search capabilities against the risks to their personal data. Ultimately, the outcome of the ICO’s investigation will shed light on the future of Recall and its place in Windows 11.
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https://www.techradar.com/computing/windows/microsofts-controversial-recall-feature-for-windows-11-could-already-be-in-legal-hot-water
