Microsoft Makes Moves To Tighten Internet Security

One thing about the internet that is a concern to web surfers everywhere is their privacy.

Microsoft recently announced that they are starting an initiative to make moves to protect sensitive user data, following increased concern from the Government surrounding the consolidation of a number of online advertising companies.

“We think it’s time for an industry wide dialogue,” Peter Cullen, Microsoft’s chief privacy officer, said in an interview. “The current patchwork of protections and how companies explain them is really confusing to consumers.”

Specifically, Microsoft said it would make all Web search query data anonymous after 18 months on its “Live Search” service, unless it receives user consent to store it longer. The policy changes are retroactive and worldwide, it said.

Ask.com was the first search company to offer a product that allows users to change their privacy policies at any time. They are also joining Microsoft’s initiative to implement standard
privacy policies across the board.

What are your thoughts about a web surfers privacy? How long do you think that surfers
data should be stored and accessible to websites like Google, Microsoft and other search engines?