Microsoft’s new AI tool, Recall, raises privacy concerns as it automatically captures screenshots of users’ laptop screens every few seconds, storing them locally. Despite assurances of encryption and limited access, experts warn of potential misuse and privacy risks if devices are compromised. The UK’s ICO is investigating to ensure user privacy is protected. Recall is exclusive to Microsoft’s new Windows laptops with the Copilot AI assistant, aiming to improve content retrieval for users.
Microsoft’s New AI Tool Raises Privacy Concerns
Microsoft has introduced a new AI-powered tool called “Recall,” designed to provide users with a ‘photographic memory’ by automatically capturing screenshots of their laptop screens every few seconds. The screenshots are encrypted and stored locally on the user’s device, and Microsoft assures that neither its staff nor remote hackers can access these images.
Despite these assurances, privacy experts have expressed concerns about potential misuse if a device falls into the wrong hands. Dr. Kris Shrishak, an AI and privacy adviser, labeled the tool as a potential “privacy nightmare.” James Bore from Bores Group echoed this sentiment, highlighting the risk of sensitive information like passwords and credit card details being inadvertently captured.
Recall is exclusive to Microsoft’s new line of Windows laptops equipped with the Copilot AI assistant, which was unveiled earlier this month. This new feature aims to help users easily refind web pages and other content viewed on their devices.
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is conducting inquiries with Microsoft to ensure user privacy is adequately safeguarded. The ICO emphasized the importance of transparency and data protection from the outset.
Microsoft’s Recall allows users to search and scroll through captured content using a timeline bar, and it can be activated or deactivated at will. The tool is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance daily computing experiences through advanced AI integrations.
