Just-In: Microsoft Bans Crypto Mining From Its Servers
Microsoft has modified its policy terms to make it clear that mining cryptocurrencies on its online services are not permitted without prior authorization. The upgrade, which is applicable to all users, including Microsoft’s premium subscribers, went into effect this December.
Microsoft Prohibits Crypto Mining
The upgrade forbids users from mining on Microsoft’s online services, primarily those connected to its cloud platform Azure. Mining is the process of verifying and adding transaction records to proof-of-work blockchains.
The following is included in the amended conditions of the universal license that can be found under “accepted use policy” on Microsoft’s website:
Neither customer, nor those that access an Online Service through “Customer”, may use an Online Service … to mine cryptocurrency without Microsoft’s prior written approval.
Read More: Japanese Power Giant Venture Into Bitcoin Mining
This decision brings Microsoft in line with other major companies, such as Google, which restricts the mining of cryptocurrencies on its cloud platforms without prior consent. Mining is prohibited for users on the free tier of Amazon Web Services as well.
Mining Disrupts Services
“Cryptocurrency mining can disrupt or even impair Online Services and its users, and is often associated with unauthorized access to and use of customer accounts,” Microsoft said in an official statement to the media.
Read More: BTC On-Chain Data Signals Bullish Sentiment, Is $20k Next?
The update was mentioned in a statement distributed to Azure users as one of many steps taken to protect the partner ecosystem, which refers to partner companies that help sign up software clients for Azure’s cloud services.
Mining Malware On The Rise
Microsoft issued a warning to its users about a new malware program designed to mine cryptocurrency that was capable of stealing passwords, removing security measures, spreading through email, and ultimately removing more features designed for human-operated activity.
Read More: Kazakhstan Passes Stringent Crypto And Mining Bills
The crypto mining malware, which was given the name ‘LemonDuck’, was designed to infect computers running Windows and Linux. It spread across multiple nations, including India, through phishing emails, exploits, USB devices, and brute force attacks.
- CEA Industries’ BNB Holdings Reach 480K as Binance Coin Hits New ATH of $1,300
- Peter Brandt Predicts XRP Could Drop to $2.2 If This Happens
- Fed’s Stephen Miran Says He’s ‘Sanguine’ on Inflation Outlook as He Backs More Rate Cuts
- S&P Launches Crypto 50 Index But There’s A Catch
- NYSE Owner ICE to Invest $2B in Polymarket as Interest in Prediction Markets Heats Up
- ASTER vs HYPE Price Analysis – Which Perp DEX Token Looks Poised to Dominate Q4 Performance?
- Ethereum Price Could Soar to $6,500 as BlackRock’s ETF Nears $20B Milestone
- Cardano Price Consolidates Below Key Resistance Ahead of ETF Verdict — Is a 50% Rally in Sight?
- Solana Price Eyes 56% Rebound Amid Solana Company’s Massive $530M SOL Acquisition
- Ethereum’s Price Bullish Cycle Resumes as Grayscale Launches Spot Staking ETPs – Is $7,331 Next?
- Pi Network Price Risky Pattern Points to Crash as 14M Coins Leave OKX
Why Trust CoinGape
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
