This is what's new in I.T.

July 24, 2019

As expected, Windows Update dropped off several packages of security and reliability fixes for Windows 7 earlier this week, part of the normal Patch Tuesday delivery cycle for every version of Windows.

But we noticed something odd in one of those Windows 7 packages.

This month's Security-only update, formally titled the "July 9, 2019—KB4507456 (Security-only update)," is that it bundled the Compatibility Appraiser, KB2952664, which is designed to identify issues that could prevent a Windows 7 PC from updating to Windows 10.

The Compatibility Appraiser tool should not be installed on your computer. The concern is that these components are being used to prepare for another round of forced updates or to spy on individual PCs. The word telemetry appears in at least one file, and for some observers it's a short step from seemingly innocuous data collection to outright spyware.

Don't trust the mega corporation, Microsoft, to take control of your computer. Don't let them spy on your computer usage. This is a huge privacy issue.

Hire a company you can trust to manage your Microsoft Updates! Infosys Unlimited takes your privacy very seriously. Call us at 702-323-0599 to schedule a time to speak with us regarding our managed IT Support.