Many people have asked me about Windows 10. They want to know if they should upgrade, and how they can reconfigure the settings to avoid Win10’s notorious privacy issues.
Windows 10’s default security settings are not conducive to consumer privacy, to put it mildly. (Microsoft isn’t alone in this; it’s become an increasing problem with modern operating systems.) You should research Win10 thoroughly before you upgrade and make your privacy configuration changes as soon as possible after installation. And, of course, always use good antivirus software and strong unique passwords, keep your software updated, and follow basic Internet security guidelines.
Unfortunately, as I have discussed before, Microsoft is forcing Windows 10 onto unsuspecting Win7 and Win8 users via Windows Update. Do NOT turn off Windows Update to solve this! Set it to notify but not download or install without your permission (instructions for Win7, instructions for Win8.1). Then make sure you install the rest of your security updates manually until you are ready to upgrade to Win10.
I have real problems with Microsoft’s aggressive auto-upgrading to Win10. It goes against longstanding IT procedures to do, not to mention alienating your customers. Believe me, after 25 years of tech support I can tell you that one thing users do NOT like is an unexpected system upgrade. It’s easier for technology companies to ignore security in favor of pushing out products, but the customer is the one who pays the price.
Here’s more information on Windows 10’s privacy problems.
- TechRadar: The Windows 10 Privacy Settings You Need To Change Right Now
- ZDNet: How To Secure Windows 10: The Paranoid’s Guide
- Lifehacker: How To Configure Windows 10 To Protect Your Privacy
- Ars Technica: Windows 10 Doesn’t Offer Much Privacy By Default, Here’s How To Fix It
- Forbes: Microsoft Confirms Unstoppable Windows 10 Tracking
Here’s some info on Microsoft’s aggressive auto-upgrading to Win10.
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