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How to Change Privacy Settings in Windows 10, 8.1

3 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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These days,privacyis one of the most talked about topics, andMicrosoftwants to make sure that it pleases Windows 8.1 andWindows 10users with the settings that it offers. Here are the options that let you be in control of yourprivacyonWindows 8.1You have probably noticed that just like on other mobile platforms, such as iOS or Android, the apps that you install from the Windows Store to your Windows10andWindows 8.1device can access various features of your system. You are probably ignoring this aspect, but you really need to know that you can be in control of yourprivacysettings. With the enlisted steps from below, we quickly share the tips and explanation ofprivacyoptions inWindows 8.1.

Important note: For Windows 10 users, type ‘Privacy Settings’ in Windows 10 search bar in the bottom left of your desktop and you will get the same menu options as in Windows 8.1.

Read Also:Microsoft gets BigBrotherAward 2018 for infringing user privacy

If you know your way already on Windows 8 andWindows 8.1, then you can know how to access PC Settings. From there, you just choose the Privacy option. But here’s the detailed guide for those who are new to the concept.

  1. Press the Windows logo + W key to open theSearch functionor open the Charms Bar by moving your mouse or swipe the finger to the top right corner.

  2. In the Search bar type ‘PC Settings‘ and then click or tap on it.

  3. Choose ‘Privacy‘ from the menu.

  4. In the ‘General‘ subsection, you can change the following:

  5. In the ‘Location‘ subsection, you can allow Windows and apps to use your location. If you don’t like certain apps to use your location, then you can disable this manually.

  6. In the ‘Webcam‘ subsection, you can do the same things as in the Location one, meaning you can disable the access of certain apps and Windows, as well. Only choose the apps that you know are really safe to use.

  7. In the ‘Microphone‘ sub-menu, you already know what you can do from the previous settings. Again, disable the apps that you don’t trust.

There’s also the ‘Other devices’ subsection, where you will probably see other devices, such as a pen or any other external devices.

Privacy settings security issues in Windows 10?

In may 2018 we have written about thenew privacy settingsthat Windows 10 April Update will bring. They have been criticized for collecting information and many users were not happy about that. Some of them reported that the privacy settings disappeared in Windows 10.

But the most discussed problem was theinability to change the settingsof the data collection process. This problem raised concerns even on a political level. If you still think that your personal information is fully secured, here’s a proof thatWindows 10 ignore user settings.

Read Also:Disable Timeline in Windows 10 April Update to protect your privacy

More about the topics:windows 8.1 tips

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