In its latest update, AdGuard for Windows v7.21 has introduced a powerful new privacy feature: the ability to disable Microsoft’s Recall, the screen-recording tool integrated into Copilot+ PCs.
This move places AdGuard alongside Signal and Brave, two other privacy-first apps that have also taken a strong stance against Recall.
Microsoft Recall was introduced as a flagship feature for Copilot+ PCs, aiming to revolutionize how users interact with their digital history.
It works by taking automatic screenshots of your activity every few seconds and making them searchable using AI. On paper, it sounds useful, letting you revisit any webpage, file, or message you’ve viewed.
But the concept quickly caused widespread backlash. Critics argue that even though the feature is opt-in and processes data locally, the idea of silently capturing everything you do is unsettling.
AdGuard Comes to the Rescue
With version 7.21, AdGuard adds a straightforward toggle that completely disables Windows Recall. Located under Tracking Protection in the settings, this new option ensures Recall cannot silently run in the background.
In a blog post, AdGuard didn’t hold back in its criticism:
“The very idea of background screen captures is unsettling. At any given moment, the system could snap a screenshot of a private chat window, an online form where you’re entering your credit card, or simply something personal you didn’t want saved.”
AdGuard’s developers also raised concerns about the weaknesses in Microsoft’s current safeguards. They argue that PIN-based protection is easy to bypass, filters meant to block sensitive data don’t always work, and storing screenshots locally doesn’t make them immune to theft or misuse.
Signal and Brave Paved the Way
Signal, the encrypted messaging app, was the first to act, blocking Recall from accessing its app windows entirely. The Signal team described Recall as a “privacy nightmare,” and its decision set the tone for other developers.
Shortly after, the Brave browser followed suit. Brave announced it would disable Recall by default for users on Windows 11 and newer systems. While users can turn it back on manually, Brave made it clear the default setting would protect privacy first.
Other browser makers and app developers are also expressing concern. Mozilla Firefox engineers have acknowledged the risk and are reportedly working on methods to prevent Recall from logging browser content.
Vivaldi, another browser known for its focus on privacy, is actively exploring ways to prevent Recall from accessing its users’ activity.
