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 TV-IT, an independent German security auditor to test how well Windows Genuine Advantage protects customers’ data. TV-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. TV-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 conflict with da
