Windows won't capture everything you do in screenshots by default anymore — unless you choose to allow it.
Microsoft is changing its Recall feature in Windows 11 to make it optional and to address security concerns raised by experts.
The Recall feature, which captures screenshots of your computer activity, was initially set to be automatically enabled but will now require user consent.
Users setting up new Copilot Plus PCs will have the option to turn off Recall during the setup process.
Activation of Recall will also necessitate using Windows Hello for authentication, ensuring only authorized users can access the feature.
Additional security measures, such as encrypted data protection and authentication requirements, are being implemented to safeguard Recall snapshots.
Recall operates by locally capturing computer activity and providing a searchable timeline for users to review their past actions.
Microsoft is responding to concerns raised by cybersecurity experts, such as Kevin Beaumont, who highlighted potential vulnerabilities in Recall's data storage.
Tools like TotalRecall and NetExec have emerged to extract Recall data due to current database vulnerabilities.
The development of Recall falls under Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative, aimed at enhancing software security following recent cyberattacks.
Microsoft emphasizes its commitment to prioritizing security in software development and pledges to continue refining Recall based on user feedback.