FAS warned “Microsoft” not to create discriminatory conditions

On 13 June 2017, FAS issued warnings to “Microsoft” to stop actions that have signs of violating the antimonopoly law (Clause 8 Part 1 Article 10 and Articles 14.2, 14.8 of the Federal Law “On Protection of Competition”).

Investigating a case against “Microsoft Corporation” upon signs of violating the antimonopoly law (Part 1 Article 10 of the Federal Law “On Protection of Competition”), FAS ascertained additional circumstances that indicate discriminatory conditions, namely:

- Introducing restrictions in the part of the form and timeframe for notifying used of antivirus software of

- Including a section in the Antimalware Platform Requirements, failure to comply with which constitutes the grounds to block and refuse to transfer updated versions of antivirus software OS

- Omissions to support timely bilateral information exchange

- Blocking (switching off) third-party antivirus software and activating (switching on) Windows Defender antivirus software without properly notifying users and obtaining their evident consent

- Introducing a more complex procedure for updating the installed antivirus software.

The Commission also found violations of Articles 14.2, 14.8 of the Federal Law “On Protection of Competition”: distribution of Windows software applying 10 methods of cooperation with users, aimed at stimulating the use to refuse using third-party antivirus software and activate Microsoft antivirus software (Windows Defender).

The warnings should be executed within a month.

FAS continues investigating No. 1-00-168/00-11-16 case against “Microsoft Corporation” for violating the antimonopoly law.