Be sure to avoid these 5 privacy pitfalls in Windows 10.–PC Pitstop.
5 Keys to Windows 10 Privacy
by Fox Van Allen for Techlicious
Have you given the new Windows 10 operating system a try? There are a lot of great features in Windows 10, like automatic and continuous updates, Cortana integration, smart search and advanced security features. Best of all, it’s a free update for all Windows 7 and Windows 8 PC owners.
Unfortunately, though, there are some privacy pitfalls waiting for you in the new operating system. Microsoft has turned on a ton of data sharing settings on by default, so you’ll want to take a few moments with your new install to make sure you keep full control over your personal data. Here are some of the biggest privacy issues in Windows 10, and what you can do to mitigate the problem.
1. Don’t use “Express settings” during setup.
If you’ve yet to install Windows 10 on your PC, be sure to avoid using “express settings” when you do. It will automatically enable the maximum amount of data sharing with Microsoft, and in doing so, the minimum amount of privacy for you. Choose the custom install option instead.
On the first “Customize settings” page, you’ll want to turn all the toggles to off. This will prevent Windows 10 from sharing your contacts, location and typing data with Microsoft. It’ll also prevent apps from using your advertising ID to serve you customized ads across all Windows 10 programs. You may choose to enable Microsoft’s SmartScreen anti-phishing and malware service on the second page, but otherwise we recommend toggling these switches to off, as well.
