Windows Live takes privacy and security threats very seriously, employing a variety of ever-improving technical, educational and legal means to help keep customers and their data safe. That said, malicious attacks are always a risk, as hackers use increasingly sophisticated tools to circumvent security measures. And while we believe Windows Live is great platform for developers to build companion services on, we do not endorse services purporting to integrate with Windows Live unless they are built by Microsoft or by developers using official Windows Live APIs available at http://dev.live.com.
Today, Microsoft is filing suit against several people and businesses in which we allege that they undermine the security and privacy of Windows Live customers. This case alleges that the defendants engaged in instant messaging spam and phishing on Windows Live Messenger. (For reference, phishing is an attempt to collect user account credentials under false pretenses. Spimming is the act of sending unsolicited instant messages, usually junk advertisements, to other IM users.) The complaint, Microsoft Corporation v. Funmobile et al No. 09-2-21247-3 SEA, “FIRST AMENDED COMPLAINT FOR DAMAGES AND EQUITABLE RELIEF”, can be found in full in this pdf.
This filing is an important step in maintaining and improving the safety of our 320 million active Windows Live Messenger users. With today’s action, Microsoft is sending a clear message that this kind of activity is not allowed and that we’re taking proactive steps to protect our customers accordingly. As this case moves forward, we will keep you updated on progress.
If you would like more information, please check out a more detailed post on our Policy & Issues blog, Microsoft on the Issues that details the specifics of this legal action.
- The Windows Live team
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