Microsoft has faced accusations of abruptly closing email accounts owned by Palestinians who used Skype to make phone calls to Gaza. According to a BBC investigation, several Palestinians living abroad had their Microsoft-owned voice and video chat app accounts terminated without warning, effectively “destroying their digital lives.” These closures have left them unable to access bank accounts, job offers, and the ability to contact relatives in war-torn Gaza. The situation is particularly challenging given the frequent disruptions to internet and mobile connectivity in Gaza due to the Israeli military campaign. While Microsoft claims that the account closures were due to violations of its terms of service, some Palestinians dispute this claim and express frustration over the sudden loss of crucial online services.
🚨🇵🇸MICROSOFT SHUTS DOWN PALESTINIANS’ EMAIL ACCOUNTS WITHOUT WARNING
Palestinians abroad have accused Microsoft of suddenly closing their email accounts, blocking access to bank info, job offers, and Skype—vital for contacting family in Gaza.
Eiad Hametto, living in Saudi… pic.twitter.com/ymyuJncTBI
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 16, 2024
Sources:
www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cger582weplo
daysofpalestine.ps/microsoft-shuts-down-palestinian-accounts-using-skype-to-call-gaza/