Microsoft has announced a series of updates to its free Microsoft Copilot service, set to launch next month, specifically for users with a Microsoft Entra account. These updates will significantly enhance data security, privacy, and compliance while also simplifying the user experience for both work and education environments.
Enterprise Data Protection at No Additional Cost
One of the most notable updates is the introduction of Enterprise Data Protection (EDP) for Entra account users. This feature, provided at no additional cost, extends the robust security, privacy, and compliance measures already available in Microsoft 365 to the Copilot service. EDP ensures that all prompts and responses in Copilot are safeguarded by the same trusted terms and commitments that protect emails in Exchange and files in SharePoint.
Key Features of Enterprise Data Protection
- Data Security: Copilot will protect user data with encryption, both at rest and in transit, alongside strict physical security measures and tenant data isolation.
- Privacy Commitments: Microsoft guarantees that user data will only be used as instructed, upholding privacy standards such as GDPR and ISO/IEC 27018.
- Access Controls: Users’ existing access controls and policies will apply to Copilot, with prompts and responses logged and available for audit, eDiscovery, and advanced Microsoft Purview capabilities.
- Protection Against AI Risks: Microsoft has also implemented safeguards against AI-related risks, including harmful content and prompt injections.
Alignment with Industry Trends in Data Protection
As noted by industry experts, the demand for comprehensive Enterprise Data Protection solutions is on the rise, driven by increasing regulatory requirements and the growing complexity of data landscapes . Microsoft’s latest updates to Copilot are not just about meeting current standards but setting a benchmark for future data protection practices. By integrating EDP directly into Copilot, Microsoft is addressing the critical need for organisations to maintain control over their data in an AI-driven world. This is particularly important as companies navigate the balance between leveraging advanced AI tools and adhering to strict data governance policies.
“Microsoft’s latest updates to Copilot are not just about meeting current standards but setting a benchmark for future data protection practices”
A Unified Approach to Data Security
The updates also reflect a broader trend towards unifying data security and management across platforms. By ensuring that the same level of protection extends across Microsoft 365 services—including Copilot—Microsoft is simplifying the security landscape for enterprises. This approach reduces the risk of vulnerabilities that can arise from managing multiple, disparate security systems, offering a more cohesive and manageable solution for businesses.
With these updates, Microsoft is not only enhancing Copilot but also reinforcing its commitment to providing secure, user-friendly tools that empower organisations to thrive in a data-driven era.