On Friday, Microsoft announced it is delaying the launch of Recall, an AI-powered user activity-tracking tool, citing cybersecurity worries.
First introduced on May 20, the Copilot+ PC is a next-generation computer that contains Microsoft’s newest AI innovations, including Recall. This tool automatically captures regular screenshots to build an activity record, allowing users to search for a previous action.
Soon after the reveal, cybersecurity specialists warned that hackers might abuse the tool to steal user information, especially usernames and passwords. As a result, Microsoft announced that the Recall tool would be turned off by default, so users needed to opt in.
In addition, the Washington-headquartered corporation will employ multi-layered search database encryption and require enrollment in Windows Hello to access Recall. The secure sign-in feature requires proof of identity through facial recognition, fingerprint identification, or a PIN.
Furthermore, Microsoft advised users to upgrade their operating system (OS), as Windows 10 will reach its end of support (EoS) on October 14. According to industry watchers, over 70.00% of Microsoft OS users have yet to switch to Windows 11.
This alarmed tech professionals, who said that without security updates, users of Windows 10 and older will become vulnerable to hackers. Thus, they petitioned to limit access to Recall to Windows 11 users until Microsoft creates foolproof safeguards.
Recall Separates from Microsoft Copilot+ PCs
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized that Copilot+ PCs will no longer be bundled with Recall upon their June 18 release. Instead, a preview of the tracking tool will be available only to the tech giant’s Windows Insider Program (WIP) members.
Windows Corporate Vice President Pavan Davuluri said the move will enable the firm to gather data to patch security shortcomings. WIP will allow millions of loyal fans to scrutinize Recall and engage directly with software engineers to provide feedback.
However, cybersecurity experts cautioned that this arrangement is insufficient to prevent exploitation since hackers could join the Insider Program. They clarified that anyone could join the Microsoft WIP community for free using their work or personal email.
