Microsoft Brings Windows 10-Like Data Collection to Office, Users Can’t Opt Out

Syafiq

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May 8, 2017
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Microsoft has implemented new telemetry settings in its Office productivity suite, offering just two different settings and without letting users opt out.
A report from The Reg indicates that this behavior was implemented earlier this month and is pushed with a UI that requires users to Share how you use Office. There are two different options displayed on the screen, namely full diagnostic data and basic diagnostic data, with no other setting offered to those who don’t want to share any information with Microsoft.
“Diagnostic data is used to keep Office secure and up-to-date, troubleshoot problems, and make product improvements. Choose an option below and select “Accept”. You can change this setting at any time,” the same dialog reads.
According to Microsoft itself, the basic level sends information like Office settings, device capabilities, and app crashes, while the full setting includes details about how you use apps, features, and devices with enhanced error reporting.
The cited source notes that this new telemetry service is available on both Windows and Mac, and it is also displayed to existing Microsoft Office users, despite Microsoft explaining that it only shows up when installing the productivity suite.
Data used to improve Office performance
We haven’t been offered the new data collection configuration screen and there are no telemetry settings in Microsoft Office.
Microsoft has reportedly confirmed this behavior in a statement, explaining that users can control their data from the company’s privacy dashboard.
“As you use Office, we collect diagnostic information that helps us find and address issues, improve our products and services, and provide you with customized experiences,” a company spokesperson was quoted as saying.
Telemetry services are most often used by companies to collect information that’s critical for diagnosing bugs and delivering patches to ensure smooth performance of their software. Microsoft has previously come under fire for collecting user data from Windows 10 devices, so some clarification for Office customers would certainly be helpful.
Hmm.... Good job, Microsoft.... What do you want to do with the users data :sneaky:
 

Evjl's Rain

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Apr 18, 2016
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thankfully, we can still use the previous versions and disable update for office
in older versions, we can easy disable the internet connection in Office or if we don't trust it, we can block every single exe in the installation folder using a firewall
Capture.PNG
 

Atlas147

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Happens when they hold monopoly over the market and inexperienced users don't want to switch over to other open source projects because everyone else is using microsoft office
 

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