Azure cloud users quizzed by EU on what data they give to Microsoft
EU wants to know more about Microsoft as part of its antitrust case
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Microsoft’s rivals are being quizzed by the European Union’s antitrust regulators about the information they have being made to share as part of their Azure cloud contracts.
According to aReutersreport, the questionnaire asks about the contractual clauses that require companies to share information about their European customers with the tech giant, which is thought to be leading Microsoft directly to its competition’s customers.
The EU also wants to know about the frequency of reporting, data periods, and whether the information goes directly to Microsoft or if there is a third party in the middle, such as an auditor.
Microsoft antitrust case
Microsoft’s ongoing antitrust case in the EU has been unfolding for months following notification from CISPE members that the company’s anticompetitive nature may be giving it an unfair advantage, helping it to occupy a significant proportion of the sector.
Weeks ago, reports broke that the company was nearing a settlement deal with OVHcloud, Aruba, and the Danish Cloud Community, but it seems that the EU is not done with Microsoft just yet.
These are the best cloud hosting providers>Microsoft is close to settling its big cloud antitrust case>Microsoft warns of cloud data “blockages” as EU-US deal nears
An EU executive spokesperson said: “The Commission has received several complaints regarding Microsoft, including in relation to its product Azure, which we are assessing based on our standard procedures.”
Microsoft so far has been reluctant to comment on the ongoing case, which is fast approaching a year old.
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
One person familiar with the matter has suggested that a settlement deal between it and CISPE is under discussion.
More broadly, the company has been subject to numerous fines in the EU including a hefty$561 million finein 2013 for “failing to comply with its commitments to offer users a browser choice screen enabling them to easily choose their preferred web browser.”
Over the past decade, Redmond has been subject to around $1.8 million in fines for various violations.
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
LG Electronics sets ambitious B2B revenue goal to offset declining consumer demand
New fanless cooling technology enhances energy efficiency for AI workloads by achieving a 90% reduction in cooling power consumption
Phishing attacks surge in 2024 as cybercriminals adopt AI tools and multi-channel tactics
