Microsoft notifies gamers about information they share with publishers

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Published onMay 15, 2018

published onMay 15, 2018

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In the fallout of the Facebook Cambridge Analytica sharing scandal, many have started to worry about their privacy and what exactly is done with the data shared with companies online. Well, according to areport from GameSpot, Microsoft is now taking action and is notifying some gamers about the information the company shares with publishers on Xbox.

Though we’re not seeing this message just yet, GameSpot says Microsoft is pushing out a message to Xbox One consoles which reiterate the company’s privacy and data sharing policies. It essentially details that when you play, Xbox Live enabled games or apps, Microsoft will share your play habits and some of your information with the developer or publisher of said game or app.

That shared information includes your country, age range, Gamertag, Xbox Live Avatar, information on your Gamerscore, and how much time you’ve played the game or app. Other shared information includes social data such as club memberships; friends, other users you have played with, and information about your interactions and communications.

Importantly, it also is explained that Microsoft can not control what publishers do with that data since it is determined by their own privacy policies. Microsoft also explains that the information is only collected to help “deliver your online experiences, improve the game or app, diagnose problems, provide support, and connect you with other users.”

These privacy notifications were first hinted in a blog post last month, and have rolled out to Alpha Ring Xbox Insiders in thelast round of updates. You can always stop sharing your app or game data with a developer by uninstalling the game,and revoking access. More information on Microsoft’s privacy policiesis also available here.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).

For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.

Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.

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Radu Tyrsina

With KB5043178 to Release Preview Channel, Microsoft advises Windows 11 users to plug in when the battery is low#

Copilot in Outlook will generate personalized themes for you to customize the app#

Microsoft will raise the price of its 365 Suite to include AI capabilities#

Death Stranding Director’s Cut is now Xbox X|S at a huge discount#

Outlook will let users create custom account icons so they can tell their accounts apart easier#

Microsoft notifies gamers about information they share with publishers#