Win 10 data update costs, you thinkk its bad Here

Consumer groups have slammed Microsoft for its policy of forced updates for Windows 10, which is hitting customers in remote locations with massive bill shocks by blowing out their data caps.

Maureen Hilyard, an internet user in the Cook Islands, an autonomous region associated with New Zealand, claims she faces a bill as much as $NZ600 ($A532) for the month of August, thanks to Windows 10 automatic updates.

said many consumers were unaware of Windows 10's forced updates, or did not realise the initial 3GB Windows 10 upgrade file might cause them problems in terms of data usage.

"It doesn't matter where you live; you need to make sure you're not using mobile broadband [for upgrades]," Ms Corbin said.

"If you can, use a wireless [Wi-Fi] option or another option, such as paying someone to install it in a shop."

Microsoft began rolling out Windows 10 for PC and tablet devices globally on July 29, so customers whose monthly billing cycle is not yet complete may be unaware of any looming bill shock.

To add insult to injury, Microsoft has confirmed it is hijacking users' internet connections to upload software updates to other users, through "peer-to-peer" technology.

While the practice takes a load off Microsoft's servers, it may also cause headaches for users with data caps or slow internet connections.