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Cryptome site published a leaked version of the manual used by Microsoft to monitor violators of its various online services and transmit information to authorities.
The manual consists of 22 pages where Microsoft spells out its internal monitoring procedures for Hotmail, Live Messenger and Xbox Live and how that information on criminal activity is transmitted to the competent authorities. The leak revealed that Microsoft retains the IP and e-mail information from users.
In the case of Xbox Live Microsoft monitors closely the activities of its users online:
- Take part gamer
- Credit Card Number
- Phone Number
- Name and surname plus postal code
- Serial number of the Xbox and if it is used on Xbox Live
- E-mail account
- IP History for the whole duration of the gamer tag
Wikileaks takes the case
By some accounts shortly after Cryptome disclosed the information Microsoft would have required the closure of the site. Because their accommodation was in charge of Network Solutions and it shall be closed arguing breach of the rules for registration and operation.
However, in today’s digital reality is virtually impossible to remove Internet information already made public. Therefore, Wikileaks announced its intention to host the Cryptome site outside the United States if necessary, as explained in this tweet.
Microsoft, meanwhile, has issued a statement where he explains that like other suppliers, the company is obliged to provide authorities with information about criminal investigations. As such, the company assumes the responsibility they have towards the authorities, but states that protects the privacy of its users. He points out it did not request to disable the Network Solutions site Cryptome, but merely asked that its contents were removed from the site reserved.
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