Microsoft admitted that “its tool for determining whether a computer is running a pirated copy of Windows also quietly checks in daily with the software maker.”

Dvorak Uncensored » “Windows Genuine Advantage” checks in — daily

This is much like the Sony music CDs that phoned home. Those got Sony in a lot of trouble.

In future, expect more of your technology to be spying.

You can get past that. Assume that there is no privacy on the internet.

Or take action to protect your privacy. Encript. Use PGP email.

The only thing I do is use a program called Little Snitch. Every time my computer tries to call out unexpectedly, I get a warning. Then and there I can approve that contact. Or deny it. Normally I deny.

It’s interesting what software is yanking the football out from under me.