If you're one of the estimated 50 million people running Windows 10, Microsoft could be monitoring your computer for pirated software.

An update to the computing giant's End User Licence Agreement has granted it the right to remotely disable counterfeit games, programmes and hardware.
 

© Microsoft

"[Microsoft] may automatically check your version of the software and download software update or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorised hardware peripheral devices," read the new terms and conditions.

Microsoft is yet to confirm whether it plans to exercise its right to hunt down illegitimate software remotely, and a company spokesperson skated around the issue when pressed for details.

"We take claims of intellectual property infringement seriously and review them in accordance with our standard procedures," said the firm in a statement to NDTV.
 

© Microsoft

"We also continue to review the content of our Windows Store periodically as described in this blog post, as we work to deliver a great customer experience and provide fair and transparent developer policies and enforcement."

Windows 10 is a seamless operating system designed to work and sync across PC, mobiles, tablets and a range of other devices.

Free for the first year, the software began its rollout to PCs on July 29. The mobile phone edition is expected to be released in the coming months.

Read more: http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tech/news/a663722/can-microsofts-windows-10-disable-pirated-games-remotely.html#ixzz3jA4Qiqgw 
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