Microsoft Permanently Banning Halo 4 Pirates from Xbox Live

[Shawn Zipay]

You'd have to be quite dumb to pirate Halo 4. You would have to be even more dumb to not only pirate Halo 4 but also to play it while connected to the Internet. Well, some people are that dumb and are now paying the price for their actions.

Those who have been banned have been issued the following email.

“This email is to notify you that your Xbox Live privileges have been permanently suspended due to illegitimate prerelease title play.

“Because your conduct is in violation, the Xbox Live Enforcement Team has issued a permanent suspension. Your Xbox Live privileges will not be reinstated.”

Microsoft continues on to note that a violation of the Xbox Live Terms of Use could result in account and console bans. It is unclear right now if all of these bans for pirating Halo 4 are merely account bans or if they're the more strict console bans for some users.

(via MCV)

[CptainCrunch]

OK, so Im looking at this and we've all talked about the Halo security a few times now....

So, why do you think they locked down the offices and all that and not the plant that makes the CD? Or is that how its being leaked?

I think there can be some good conversations out of this. Here are some bullet points to get us started:

• Microsoft + Security = ???
• Offices Secured, but why?
• Is final distribution to blame?
• Chances are the discs are made in China, is that the problem?
• Could these leaks be from the secured offices?
• Is it because of Windows (rimshot)?

[Shawn Zipay]

OK, so Im looking at this and we've all talked about the Halo security a few times now....

So, why do you think they locked down the offices and all that and not the plant that makes the CD? Or is that how its being leaked?

I think there can be some good conversations out of this. Here are some bullet points to get us started:

• Microsoft + Security = ???
• Offices Secured, but why?
• Is final distribution to blame?
• Chances are the discs are made in China, is that the problem?
• Could these leaks be from the secured offices?
• Is it because of Windows (rimshot)?

The increased security at their offices/studio probably have nothing to do with Halo 4 at all. It's more than likely for the next-gen Xbox.

[CptainCrunch]

OH, thats right. Im sorry Zips. I forgot they were doing that. I got my security all mixed up.

So do you think this is just the "run-of-the-mill" leak?

Also, though I am sure its in the xbox usage agreement, isnt it a bit harsh to do any type of ban on a leak or does it fit the crime that is piracy, that only affects PC?

[Shawn Zipay]

Yeah, typical leak of a high profile game. It's happened with many high profile, hugely anticipated games once they are sent for mass reproduction in the factories.

[defragen1]

Woah.. Captain, I'm detecting a large quantity of anti-piracy butt hurt in this sector.

[CptainCrunch]

Woah.. Captain, I'm detecting a large quantity of anti-piracy butt hurt in this sector.

Oh yeah, like what?

What is your take on the banning?

[Shawn Zipay]

Oh yeah, like what?

What is your take on the banning?

I've got a pretty good idea what his take on it is:

[CptainCrunch]

Ohhhhh, I see.

Well, thats too bad. BUT, good news! Zips posted up that new Xbox are going on sale for the holidays.