“..Free From Fear and Intimidation, and Within the Boundaries You Set” – Microsoft Takes A Major Step With Xbox By Suspending Almost 5 Million Accounts

Microsoft has released its first Digital Transparency Report for its gaming platform, Xbox. Revealing a lot of inside news and statistics about the company’s recent ventures and activities. It has revealed that in the short span of 6 months, Microsoft has suspended almost 5 million Xbox accounts. 

These reports cover the period between January 1 and June 30 of 2022. It contains a variety of information and data about the consumer base. Including the numbers and breakdowns of suspensions of player accounts in terms of violation of the company’s guidelines. 

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In the last 6 months, Microsoft has suspended around 4.78 million accounts, which is almost ten folds compared to the number of account suspensions in the previous years. According to Microsoft, these suspensions, or “Proactive Enforcements” are an attempt to display their commitment to the online safety of the players on the platform. 

What did Microsoft say about the Xbox account suspensions?

Microsoft’s officials have been vocal about the whole situation. They have come forward and let the fans know that these steps are to make sure that they feel safe while being online on the Xbox. According to them; the company is committed to giving an equal and fair experience to all users. So, those who will try to go over the guidelines will face severe consequences. 

In a press release, CVP of Xbox Player Services, Dave McCarthy said, “We believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy of gaming, free from fear and intimidation, and within the boundaries you set.” He added that they know “Xbox is a special place for all of you,” which is why the team won’t rest until they make sure that every user gets a great experience from their favorite console. 

What is “Proactive Enforcements”?

“Proactive Enforcements” basically means temporarily banning a user’s account. According to the recently released data. This year’s “Proactive Enforcements” have increased almost 10x times than the last. Microsoft has proceeded with 4.78 million enforcements. These actions were taken against accounts that suspiciously strayed outside of the Company’s strict guidelines.  

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The data reveals that in the total number of enforcements, around 199,000 were taken against Xbox accounts involving adult sexual content,  87,000 against fraud, and 54,000 against online bullying. Piracy and tampering were some of the other main reasons for the accounts’ suspensions.