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Main page  |  News  |  Privacy of Bitcoin is Under Threat with Windows 10

Privacy of Bitcoin is Under Threat with Windows 10

01.10.2015



Upcoming global installation of Windows 10 put Bitcoin e-wallets’ holders on guard. On par with advantages of new OS there is a significant disadvantage which can outweigh all advantages. So, what benefits do we get with Windows 10? Intuitive interface, which is a way better than in Win 8, and a voice navigator, which makes life of IT specialists easier. Why have Bitcoin users become alert for this great Microsoft product? A certain document provides developers with privileges and rights with respect to privacy. This parameter is of great importance for all holders of Bitcoin accounts. So, what is reasoning of Microsoft for getting access to personal data and transactions? Moreover, we deal not only with access but transfer of data to third parties without consent of a data-holder:
 
• In case of legal proceedings if a user falls into a field of investigation.
• For safety of other Win 10 users in case of “suspected” unfair actions, such as spamming or illegal transactions.
• Microsoft is responsible for protecting its products from hacker frauds, therefore is bound to prevent such actions.
• Microsoft is justified to secure its intellectual and physical property.

  Several paragraphs of «Microsoft Privacy Statement» perplexed many Internet users. The developer states the ground upon obtaining admittance to personal data; however, there are no reasons but only suspicions mentioned. In other words, without proof of fraud or involvement of a user, Microsoft is a priori allowed to receive and deliver personal information.
Who Is Interested in Microsoft’s Innovations in Windows 10
  On the one hand, Win 10 developer’s concerns are clear and reasonable. Every software developer is justified to make attempts in order to secure its products and ensure its legal usage. On the other side, who will determine whether actions of a user are fraudulent, and who will control transactions to consider them illegal? From Microsoft’s listed reasons it is obvious that the developer ascribes to Microsoft the right to access and transfer personal data. This right does not presuppose availability of evidence but is a priori considered as a justified by the system itself.
 Thus, with installing Win 10 a user agrees with listed items, therefore, Microsoft is justified not to discuss its further actions in respect of personal data. This is the way to provide “legitimate” access. Can we consider developer’s reasoning as legitimate? Unfortunately, listed items are not to be discussed, so be ready that with Win 10 your activity will be followed and transferred to relevant authorities. Besides transaction records data related to bank cards, e-wallets and other personal information can be transferred. Law-enforcement authorities, including government security services, most probably are pleased with such an opportunity. Of course, it is great to get plenty of information with no need to exert any efforts. It turns out that implementation of Windows 10 opens doors wide for legalized spying on almost all Internet users.
   No wonder that Bitcoin-wallet holders have reasons to be worried. And recent scandals related to ANB and revealed evidences of monitoring Internet-activity of countries – Germany, France, Belgium and others – come as no surprise. Anyhow, it is very unlikely that somebody would be pleased that personal data is revealed to third parties on continuing basis.
  The Way out for Bitcoin-Holders
  Rebuff of Bitcoin-account holders is quite reasonable, but another question arises whether it is possible to avoid the same situation with other OS. Nobody guarantees that other developers stand apart from patriotic sentiments as in case of Microsoft. It remains for us just to set hopes upon relative honesty and transparency in running businesses. All products developed in the field of OS will be met cautiously. Regarding Windows 10 the issue of trust is resolved. It is very unlikely that Bitcoin users will undertake a risk to install this software on their computers or mobile devices. Suggestion for those who plan to change OS: read provided by developer documentation thoroughly. Privacy shall not become an empty word in the age of espionage and information leaks with no excuses.