Advertisers Blast Microsoft Over IE Default Privacy Settings

theodp writes "GeekWire reports that Microsoft is sticking to its decision to implement 'Do-Not-Track' as the default for IE 10, despite drawing the ire of corporate America, the Apache Software Foundation, and the FTC Chairman. Representatives of a veritable Who's Who of Corporate America — e.g., GM, IBM, BofA, Walmart, Merck, Allstate, AT&T, Motorola — signed off on a letter blasting Microsoft for its choice. 'By presenting Do Not Track with a default on,' the alliance argues, 'Microsoft is making the wrong choice for consumers.' The group reminds Microsoft that Apache — whose Platinum Sponsors have branded Microsoft's actions a deliberate abuse of open standards and designed its software to ignore the 'do-not-track' setting if the browser reaching it is IE 10. It also claims that the FTC Chairman, formerly supportive of Microsoft's privacy efforts, now recognizes 'the harm to consumers that Microsoft's decision could create.'"

Re:So you admit tracking is bad for customers

[Bengie]

Speak for yourself, i love my targeted ads. I have found MANY deals for my computer equipment from Google ads. Both my brother and I explicitly opt-in for tracking because we have saved thousands of dollars via "70% special while stocks lasts!!!" type ads from sites that we normally shop.

Re:Microsoft cares about privacy

[jimshatt]

But that also means that there is no need for a DNT header, but for a DT header. Meaning: I don't know what tracking is, but after you explain it to me, I'll consider allowing you to track me.

If you can present a very good argument as to why you should punch me in the face and take my wallet, I might allow you to do just that, but I doubt it.