While our well-behaved readers might not be interested in this story, you might want to tell your naughty friends that Microsoft has updated its Services EULA to give itself the power to scan your hard disk and remove pirated games.
Section 7b in the updated Microsoft Services EULA allows Microsoft to "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."
Interestingly, the new terms give Microsoft the power to target pirated games but not pirated applications such as Microsoft Office or Adobe PhotoShop.
Some news outlets have reported that the new terms are for Windows 10, but they aren't. At least, not directly. Instead, the Services EULA applies to a multitude of Microsoft services including Bing, Cortana, Microsoft Edge's default homepage & new tab page, Microsoft Account, Office 365, OneDrive, Skype, Xbox LIVE and Games published by Microsoft.
Cortana is a core component of Windows 10 and Edge is its default web browser. By using any of them, you fall under the umbrella of the new EULA. Nonetheless, it is hard to imagine a Windows 8, 7 or XP user who doesn't use Skype, OneDrive or games published by Microsoft.
