Microsoft is facing a lawsuit over the way it allegedly tracks Windows Phone 7 users, even after they have opted out of tracking software.
The class action lawsuit, filed in a Seattle, claims Microsoft deliberately designed camera software in its Windows Phone 7 system to ignore user requests not to be tracked.
According to news agency Reuters, which claims to have seen the lawsuit, the litigation states that Microsoft transmits data – including approximate latitude and longitude coordinates of the user’s device – while the camera application is activated.
The case, brought by a Windows Phone user, but with the option for others to join, seeks an injunction and punitive damages, among other remedies.
The lawsuit also claims the company misled US lawmakers in a letter in which it claimed it only collected location information with express permission from users. “Microsoft’s representations to Congress were false,” the lawsuit claims, according Reuters.
The letter to Congress came amid a flurry of location-tracking stories, including the revelation that Apple’s iPhone handsets were collecting location data.
Microsoft has yet to respond to requests for comment.
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