Microsoft’s New AI-Powered Recall Feature Sparks Privacy Concerns
Microsoft’s recent announcement of an AI-powered recall feature for Windows 11 has captured the attention of privacy advocates, including the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office. This feature, which takes screenshots every few seconds, offers Microsoft’s co-pilot assistant a photographic memory of a user’s recent activity over the past three months. While Microsoft assures users that the feature is optional and that these images are encrypted and stored locally, privacy concerns persist.
The recall feature allows users to restrict screenshots from being taken during the use of specific apps and websites, and users can pause or delete snapshots at any time. However, there is a potential risk of capturing sensitive information, such as login credentials or social security numbers, if users forget to pause the feature during critical activities. Privacy advocates warn that if a malicious actor gains access to the device or if Microsoft decides to change how the information is stored, the recall feature could pose a significant security threat.
EU Enforces Strict AI Safety Regulations
In contrast to the US’s voluntary compliance approach, the European Council has finalized robust AI safety regulations as part of the AI Act, set to take effect next month…
