Banned: Microsoft Attacks Halo Reach Pirates

Kris Erickson • Aug 24, 2010 • Comments ()

We thought about inserting a clever pun on the word "reach" to begin this post, something like "Microsoft Reaches the end of its rope, goes on a Ban Frenzy". Or how about, "Microsoft Rewards Treachery with Swift Console Bannings." In the end, its probably better just to state the facts as we've heard them: following the unceremonious leak of Halo Reach onto Bit Torrent sites this week, Microsoft has done what it usually does in cases like this: track down and ban anybody found playing the game prior to its release. Halo Reach officially goes on sale in three weeks time on September 14th, so it's easy to see who's been playing the leaked version of the game (although how stupid do you have to be to log on to LIVE with Reach achievements already unlocked?).

Here is an email that many hapless console modders are likely to find in their inboxes shortly:

This email is to notify you that your Xbox LIVE account privileges have been permanently suspended due to illegitimate pre-release title play.

Your conduct was brought to the attention of the LIVE Enforcement Team through the course of our operation of the service. The LIVE Enforcement Team has reviewed the evidence regarding this conduct and determined it violates the Xbox LIVE Terms of Use and/or Code of Conduct. Because your conduct is in violation, the Xbox LIVE Enforcement Team has issued a permanent suspension.

During your suspension, you will not be able to log into Xbox LIVE. Your Xbox LIVE privileges will not be reinstated.

Customer Support is not able to modify or provide any further details about your suspension.