This change to Microsoft’s Code of Conduct seems to be particularly targeting Xbox trolls who use the platform to harass other online players. The company has made it clear that a violation of the code via Xbox services may result in suspension or bans from participation, including forfeiture of content licenses.

Offensive language is likely to also include words and phrases that are not necessarily profane yet can be upsetting for other uses. This move does not mean Microsoft will be actively monitoring online activity; they will not be listening in on your Skype calls, but if abuse is reported they reserve the right to obtain evidence of material regarding the complaint.

Giving Offence

The new terms and conditions state: “Don’t publicly display or use the Services to share inappropriate content or material (involving, for example, nudity, bestiality, pornography, offensive language, graphic violence, or criminal activity).”

“When investigating alleged violations of these Terms, Microsoft reserves the right to review your content in order to resolve the issue. However, we cannot monitor the entire Services and make no attempt to do so.”

Naturally in the wake of recent misuse of data this potential intrusion and inspection of private files, emails and chats seems creepy. It also seems arbitrarily unfair that this incursion could be triggered by someone taking offense.

Stifling Freedom of Speech?

Some have view Microsoft’s move as an attempt be compliant with the Stop Enabling Sex Trafficking Act, a recent controversial bill passed by Congress to increase censorship on the internet. Essentially the act is designed to make the online community safer, but many feel it is stifling freedom of speech saying that websites will censor content to avoid prosecution.

Microsoft’s Xbox Live service in particular has gained a reputation for abuse, harassment and bullying within online games, with players frequently encountering foul language and where racism, sexism, misogyny and other extreme viewpoints can be commonly found.

It seems unlikely, however, that Microsoft is alone in attempting to censor ‘harmful’ elements from its services. Craigslist removed its Personals page while Facebook banned extreme right-wing group Britain First and its leaders. Content curation and moderation is a huge issue and more and more companies are having to try to police their communities moving forward.

Microsoft may be a pioneer in trying to provide extra security online. In fact, Facebook and Twitter are frequently criticised for not doing enough to protect users from trolls and extreme content although Facebook will still hastily remove images of breast feeding.

A spokesman for Microsoft told The Register: “We are committed to providing our customers with safe and secure experiences while using our services. The recent changes to the Microsoft Service Agreement’s Code of Conduct provide transparency on how we respond to customer reports of inappropriate public content.”