Security and Privacy

Information and communications technologies have transformed the global economy and changed the way that millions of people work, communicate, learn, shop, and play. Yet as the digitization and flow of personal information affect so many parts of our lives, more effective policies, processes, and technologies are needed to protect and manage that information. This is confirmed by statistics published by Eurostat in February 2008 concerning Internet activities, security concerns, and virus attacks. Regarding security online, for example, the survey found that in 2006, 12 percent of individuals aged 16 to 74 in the European Union had not ordered goods or services over the Internet in the preceding 12 months because of worries about giving credit card or personal details online.

Microsoft shares in these concerns. As a developer of leading software and Internet technologies and services, Microsoft takes seriously its responsibility to help address the security and privacy challenges of the information-based society.

Policies and Programs

People must always be vigilant and protective of their personal information. However, innovative software and technological solutions can also be a powerful defense. In 2002, Microsoft launched the Trustworthy Computing Initiative. This initiative makes security, privacy, reliability, and good business practices top priorities throughout the software development process and for all Microsoft services and internal practices.

• Learn more about Trustworthy Computing

Microsoft also has a long-standing commitment to privacy and data protection. The company firmly supports Europe’s legal safeguards on individual privacy, which are among the strongest in the world. Microsoft also believes that it is the responsibility of industry to develop best practices that fully implement the letter and the spirit of these rules. Microsoft released the Privacy Guidelines for Developing Software Products and Services and Online Ad Targeting to share best practices more widely.

• Learn more about Microsoft privacy guidelines

Microsoft understands the responsibility and concern of parents who worry about their children’s exposure to inappropriate content and potentially dangerous interactions on the Web. We believe that the challenges of securing cyberspace—including enhancing Internet safety for children—are a responsibility shared by all involved stakeholders (industry partners, law enforcement authorities, nongovernmental organizations, policymakers, and society). Microsoft supports and partners with a variety of stakeholders, such as the International Association of Internet Hotlines (INHOPE), as well as with representatives of the public and private sector in several Member States, many of which are already supported under the Safer Internet Programme. Together we work to raise awareness, support and train law enforcement authorities in new technologies, provide law enforcement with forensic assistance, and share best practices.

• Learn more about helping protect your family online

Microsoft is working hard to do its part and to lead the way with progressive policies, practices, and technologies. We will continue to listen to and collaborate with all interested companies, regulators, and advocacy groups. Our goal is an environment in which everybody can enjoy, with peace of mind, the current and future benefits of technology and services.