Microsoft in trouble in Brazil over Windows 10 data collection – violates local laws, say prosecutors

After facing privacy lawsuits in the European Union, for Microsoft, it still looks as though Windows 10 data collection is a problem that will never die. This time, according to a new report from Reuters, the company is in trouble in Brazil for the way that Windows 10 collects user data without “express consent.”

Federal prosecutors in Brazil want Microsoft to change the default installation process for Windows 10, saying it gives “Automatic approval” to collect user data. They also apparently found that—with default settings enabled— Windows 10 collected browsing and search histories, the content of emails, and a user’s location to aim advertisements at specific consumers.

Their argument mentions that though users can opt out of the data collection, the proccess is “labor intensive and complex,” with Windows 10 still collecting information regardless. They also and demand that Microsoft include alerts for consumers so they can “understand “the consequences of authorizing the transfer of data.”

To be fair, Microsoft has overhauled Windows 10 privacy controls in the past and has said that they have been positively received by users. The company is also introducing a new privacy set up experience with the upcoming Redstone 4 update, which pretty much addresses Brazil’s concerns.

Prosecutors in Brazil are giving Microsoft 15 days to stop the “Automatic collection of data” in Windows 10.” If Microsoft does not comply, Brazillian authorities will fine Microsoft 10 million reais ($2.8 million USD) and 100,000 reais ($28,637 USD) for each day until a resolution is reached. The company did not immediately respond to a request to comment from Reuters.