privacy implications Archives

Winsage

January 14, 2026

Microsoft Adds Copilot AI to Windows 11 File Explorer Amid Privacy Debates

Microsoft is enhancing its artificial intelligence capabilities in Windows 11 by potentially integrating its Copilot AI into File Explorer, as indicated by recent code discoveries in insider preview builds. This integration may introduce a new Copilot button or sidebar, allowing users to engage with AI for contextual queries about files, such as summarizing documents or organizing folders. Concerns have been raised regarding privacy and system performance, as the AI could access local files. The integration may also include chat capabilities, prompting fears of data exposure. Microsoft has assured users that Copilot prioritizes local processing and operates with consent. However, critics worry about the potential for intrusive AI suggestions and the possibility of forced updates. The integration is expected to leverage Microsoft's agentic AI framework and may require advanced hardware for optimal performance. Financial incentives, such as Copilot Pro subscriptions, are also a factor in this strategic push. User feedback will be crucial in determining the success of this integration, with mixed reactions from the tech community regarding privacy and control.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

WhatsApp Launches EU Interoperability for Encrypted Cross-App Messaging

Meta Platforms Inc.’s WhatsApp is rolling out interoperability features across Europe, allowing users to send messages to individuals on third-party applications starting in November 2024. This initiative is in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires dominant tech companies to enhance competition by opening their platforms. Users will be able to communicate while maintaining end-to-end encryption, a process that has taken over three years to develop. Users must opt-in to receive messages from third-party applications, and the initial rollout is limited to specific partners. The interoperability allows for sharing text, images, voice messages, videos, and files. Meta's engineering team adapted WhatsApp's infrastructure to accommodate external services while upholding encryption standards. Concerns have been raised about potential security vulnerabilities and the implications of proposed regulations like "Chat Control" that could conflict with encryption efforts. This development could influence competitive dynamics in the messaging sector, providing smaller applications like BirdyChat and Haiket visibility by integrating with WhatsApp’s large user base. Compliance with the DMA helps Meta avoid fines while risking dilution of WhatsApp's market dominance. Privacy implications are a significant concern, with discussions around how interoperability could facilitate surveillance or compromise user security. Meta's journey involved regulatory oversight to ensure compliance with DMA objectives, and the success of this initiative could set a precedent for global standards in digital communication.

Winsage

November 30, 2025

Microsoft Issues Warning To Windows 11 Users – This AI Feature Can Install Viruses

Microsoft is transitioning to Windows 11 with the introduction of an "agentic OS," featuring experimental components called Agent Workspace, currently available to select Windows Insiders. These agentic features will be disabled by default due to potential security risks, including cross-prompt injection (XPIA) that could allow unauthorized access to user files. When activated, agent accounts can access the user profile directory, which raises concerns about data exfiltration and malware installation. The AI applications, including Copilot, will have visibility into the entire display, prompting users to consider privacy implications. Agent workspaces are designed to provide scoped authorization and runtime isolation, allowing users to manage access to files while using their devices. However, initial user reactions have been mixed, with ongoing concerns about security and functionality.

AppWizard

November 20, 2025

YouTube revives in-app direct messaging in surprise test

YouTube is testing a built-in direct messaging feature for users aged 18 and older in Ireland and Poland. Users can initiate chats by tapping the notification bell on videos and inviting others to share content. Invite links expire after seven days, and users can also use the Share button to send messages. This is YouTube's second attempt at direct messaging, having previously tested it from 2017 to 2019 before discontinuing it. The new feature aims to facilitate communication without leaving the platform, allowing creators and brands to build communities and share content. User feedback will determine the future of this feature, and there is currently no commitment to a global rollout.

Winsage

October 11, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Windows Offer—You Have 72 Hours To Act

Users operating on Windows 10 must enroll in Microsoft's free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program before October 14, 2025, to ensure uninterrupted security updates. Enrollment in the ESU program remains available until it expires on October 14, 2026, but delaying enrollment will result in a gap in security updates. Missing the October 14 deadline does not prevent enrollment in the ESU program, but devices will be more vulnerable during any non-enrollment period. Enrolling in the ESU program does not hinder upgrading to Windows 11 if the PC meets eligibility criteria. Kaspersky experts have raised concerns about privacy implications of requiring a Microsoft account for Windows 11 setup. Nearly 40% of Windows computers still run on Windows 10, with many being fully functional but not compatible with Windows 11. Users have a year to navigate these changes before the next deadline approaches.

Tech Optimizer

September 19, 2025

Surfshark boosts its antivirus offering with a revamped interface and full ARM support

Surfshark has updated its antivirus software with a new interface that improves user experience and compatibility with ARM hardware. The update aims to enhance accessibility and transparency in its cybersecurity suite, Surfshark One, which combines VPN, antivirus, private search engine, and data breach monitoring services. Key features of the revamped antivirus include a detailed protection history, easy access to additional features, and an improved repair function. Core functionalities like webcam protection and customizable security settings remain unchanged, and the antivirus uses the Avira SDK as its engine. The update addresses previous limitations for Windows ARM users, responding to increased demand for ARM support.

AppWizard

September 13, 2025

Instagram Joins Facebook, Meta, Messenger, Nordstorm, Pinterest, Threads in Becomes Most Invasive Applications for Southeast Asian Travellers – Travel And Tour World

Instagram is considered one of the most invasive apps for Southeast Asian travelers, collecting extensive personal data, including location, preferences, and browsing habits. It shares the top position with Facebook, both collecting 32 types of data, with 25 types directly linked to users. Both platforms track seven types of data across various services. Grab ranks third, collecting 27 types of data, with eight linked to users and 15 tracked across services. Threads, another Meta app, collects 32 types of data, all linked directly to users, without tracking data externally. Messenger also collects 32 types of data linked directly to users. Meta Business Suite collects the same amount of data as Messenger and Threads, all linked to users, without external tracking. Nordstrom Rack collects 22 types of data, with four linked to users and 18 tracked across services. Pinterest collects 29 types of data, with only two linked directly to users and six tracked across services. The AE + Aerie app collects 21 types of data, with three linked to users and 16 tracked across platforms. The extensive data collection by these apps raises significant privacy concerns, particularly regarding how the data is used for commercial gain and targeted advertising.

Winsage

August 9, 2025

3 apps that are saying ‘no’ to Microsoft’s invasive Recall tool, and how you can too

Microsoft's Recall tool is currently available only on Copilot+ PCs, and users can easily disable it. There are concerns that Recall may become an integral part of Windows, limiting user control. Signal has developed a workaround to prevent Recall from capturing data by enabling screen security, which uses Microsoft's DRM to keep its windows blank during screenshots. Brave has implemented a similar strategy by labeling every browser window as a private browsing session, preventing Recall access while allowing screenshots. AdGuard has updated its functionality to specifically target Recall, providing an additional layer of protection for users concerned about data privacy.

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 7’ will require TPM 2.0, Windows Secure Boot for Black Ops 7 — Activision testing Ricochet anti-cheat update in upcoming season

Activision has announced that PC players of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will need to enable Windows Secure Boot and use a system with Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM 2.0) technology. This initiative will begin testing during Season 5 of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone, but enforcement will not be immediate. The Ricochet anti-cheat team will notify players who have not updated their systems to comply. Activision assures that the TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot processes will not access personal files and will not affect in-game performance. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is encouraged but not yet mandatory, and players using a free trial of Game Pass on PC will be restricted from accessing multiplayer ranked play. Electronic Arts' Battlefield 6 will also incorporate Secure Boot as part of its anti-cheat system, limiting players to Windows.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Signal blasts Microsoft over Recall privacy failings, as secure messaging app is forced to fudge a way of blocking the controversial Windows 11 feature

Signal has introduced a new feature in its Windows 11 application that blocks Microsoft's Recall functionality to enhance user privacy. This 'screen security' setting is activated by default for Windows 11 users and is part of Signal's efforts to protect shared content on its platform. Recall captures screenshots of user activity on Copilot+ PCs, which raised privacy concerns. While Microsoft has improved Recall, issues with its interaction with privacy-focused applications like Signal remain. The feature is specifically applicable to users with Copilot+ PCs equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Users can disable the screen security setting through Signal Settings > Privacy > Screen security, with a warning about the privacy implications of doing so.