Windows 10 will sniff out and block pirate games and unauthorised hardware

Microsoft has changed the terms of its EULA (End User License Agreement) for Windows 10 to allow it to sniff around and disable illegally obtained software and indeed hardware.

That means if you have pirated games or applications on your PC, or you've hooked up what Microsoft describes as "unauthorised hardware peripheral devices", the firm can block you from using those on your Windows 10 computer.

• 10 Xbox One games we want to see on Windows 10: Best games missing on the PC

According to PC Authority, the new clause 7b for Europe, under 'Updates to the Services or Software, and Changes to These Terms', reads: “Sometimes you'll need software updates to keep using the Services. We may automatically check your version of the software and download software updates or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorized hardware peripheral devices. You may also be required to update the software to continue using the Services.”

Okay, so this is an antipiracy measure which many folks won't like of course – particularly for the snooping aspect if nothing else – but you've nothing to fear if you're on the straight and narrow anyway, right? Well not quite, as the wording around the hardware side is worryingly vague.

• T3 Opinion: Windows 10 corrects Microsoft's stupid mistakes of the past

What exactly is an “unauthorised” piece of hardware – how does Microsoft decide what is on the blacklist? And if it's an expensive peripheral that Redmond decides is dodgy, that will certainly make for a disgruntled Windows 10 user, and doubtless we'll see complaints start to pop up on the net.

That's if Microsoft actually exercises the power, of course. Just because it's in the EULA doesn't necessarily mean it will be enforced (yet).

In general, though, this move is a worrying drift towards further surveillance of Windows users.

You might also want to check out: Windows 10: a triumph that OS X El Capitan will struggle to match and our guide to the best Windows 10 features and best Windows 10 apps.