Is Microsoft® able to spy on customers through the validation scan?
Not at all. No personal data is collected during the validation process and it remains completely anonymous. Windows® Genuine Advantage can be used safely on sensitive systems and that it does not interfere with any software programs and, therefore, it does not conflict with data protection laws. Microsoft® has commissioned TüV-IT, an independent German security auditor to test how well Windows® Genuine Advantage protects customers’ data. TüV-IT conducted both a legal audit of Microsoft’s policies, specifications and statements, and a technical audit to determine if the program’s databases, source-code and implementation respect privacy concerns. TüV-IT has confirmed that Microsoft® does not collect any personal information or process any data that would allow Microsoft® to identify or contact a user. It has also confirmed that Windows® Genuine Advantage can be used safely on sensitive systems and that it does not interfere with any software programs and, therefore, it does not conflic
