Microsoft Bans Jeffrey Epstein from Xbox Live
Regardless of the nature of Bill Gates and Jeffrey Epstein’s association, it’s clear that Microsoft had grounds to prohibit the controversial financier and convicted sex offender from its gaming service.
Epstein, who was convicted of sexual abuse in 2008, had a history that likely raised red flags. Even after his conviction, it seems he was still engaged with Microsoft’s Xbox Live platform during the holiday season of 2013.
On December 19, 2013, he received an email from Microsoft informing him of his permanent ban from Xbox Live. This notification was officially titled “Notice of Permanent Enforcement Action” and came from Xbox’s policy and enforcement team.
The ban was reportedly due to “severe, repeated and/or excessive” mistreatment of other users. The email cited various actions that may have led to this decision.
- Threats of violence or destruction
- Use of abusive language towards other players
- Blackmail or manipulation
- Defamation and slander
- Sharing personal identifiable information, such as names and addresses
- Stalking
But that wasn’t the end of it.
On the same day, Epstein also received another email at a connected account stating that he had been indefinitely suspended from Xbox Live. This action was part of a collaboration between the New York State Attorney General and Microsoft, which barred registered sex offenders from using the platform to ensure safety, particularly for children.
It’s worth noting that Epstein had registered as a sex offender a few years prior. He had only joined Xbox Live in 2012.
Other communications related to gaming also surfaced, showing Epstein’s inquiries regarding Xbox products, including whether he could set up an Xbox 360 Kinect.
