When you run the Windows Live Safety scanner, information related to the security and performance of your computer is used to help find and fix issues. What information is collected and why?
Some general information is automatically collected as outlined in the end-user license agreement (EULA) you accept before using the scanner. This includes things like the type of scan performed, how long it took to run, whether the scan was successful, what malicious software was detected, and results of malicious software removal. We use this information to improve the technical quality of scanner features and performance. This information about how you use the service, as well as some information about your computer, is completely anonymous. No personal information is collected. However, some information is shared only if you choose to share it with us after you’ve completed a scan. The table below explains the types of information we collect in this case and how the information is used. Again, this information is completely anonymous. No personal information is collected. Why should I share this information with Microsoft?
This information helps us improve scanner features and make better recommendations. This means you get a better experience the next time you use the scanner. Type of information | Information collected | How is this information used? | System Configuration | · Operating system version (CSD version and Serial ID) · Machine (processor) architecture · System locale · Safe boot · Hosts · Name-Space Handler | This information helps determine whether your computer has the minimum requirements needed to install and use the scanner. | Auto Start | · Run · Winlogon Modification · Startup Folder (User) | This information can be used to identify malicious software or spyware on your computer, and to analyze the startup performance of your computer. Malicious software often copies itself into areas of your computer that start automatically when your computer is turned on. | Windows Add-ons | Protocol Catalog | This information is used to help locate and identify malicious software or spyware on your computer. | Services and Drivers | · Services · Drivers | This information is used to help diagnose any device problems your computer might be having. | Application Registration | · Task Scheduler · Installed Components | This information can be used to identify malicious software on your computer. Malicious software often inserts tasks or components into your computer which forces them to execute on a regular basis. | Internet Explorer Add-ins | · Browse Helper Objects · Internet Explorer toolbar · Internet Explorer bars · Internet Explorer extensions · Internet Explorer plugins · ActiveX downloads | This information can be used to identify malicious software or spyware on your computer. Oftentimes these threats, especially spyware, will disguise themselves within items commonly used by Internet Explorer. | Internet Explorer Configuration | · Internet Explorer Search Assistant · Internet Explorer Start Page (user) · Internet Explorer Bar (User) · Internet Explorer Customize Search · Internet Default Search URL (User) | This information is used to help identify whether your system settings have been changed by malicious software or spyware. These changes, if present on your computer, could potentially make your computer more vulnerable to attack. |
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