Windows assigns a unique 64-bit identifier called GDID to each user account, which Microsoft stores on its servers and continuously links to that user—even when using a VPN. Attempts to delete or disable the GDID locally fail because the system re-downloads it from Microsoft, and disabling telemetry services does not stop its reporting. A solution involves disabling related Windows services and blocking specific Microsoft endpoints via the hosts file, which prevents the GDID from being reported while keeping the Microsoft account functional, but does not erase previously collected identifiers or ensure full anonymity.
GDID Windows – Cut the Tracker That Follows You Even Through a VPN
