Anonymity sweeps the internet: Microsoft jumps on the bandwagon

Ask is doing it, Google's doing it, so of course Microsoft doesn't want to be left out of this new privacy sensation that's sweeping the nation. Of course, while Google announced a policy to limit how long it holds onto personally identifiable search data and Ask launched a service to let users delete their private data immediately after a search, Microsoft is calling for a new set of standards. No firm announcements of a new privacy policy here.

But it's not a bad idea. Microsoft and Ask have issued a joint call to develop a global privacy standard for data collection, use, and protection. They're looking to start a dialog with other industry leaders to develop privacy principles that protect users while making use of anonymous data to improve online search and advertising services.

While the press release has an altruistic tone, it also comes at a time when the European Union is pressuring Microsoft to change its privacy policy.

[via The Technology Free Press]

Tags: anonymous, ask.com, google, microsoft, news, privacy, search, user data, UserData