Microsoft bans crypto mining on its cloud platform Azure

Microsoft updated its policy terms to specify it will not allow cryptocurrency mining on its online services without prior written approval. The updated rule came into effect back on Dec. 1 and applies to all Microsoft’s users, including paid customers.

The update prohibits users from mining on Microsoft’s online services, largely relating to its cloud platform Azure.

Microsoft’s updated universal license terms under “accepted use policy” states: “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.”

According to the British tech site The Register, Microsoft claimed that crypto mining can “cause disruption or even impairment to Online Services.” Furthermore, its users are frequently linked to “cyber fraud” and “abuse attacks” involving unauthorized use of customer resources.

A post for Azure users listed the update among many actions made to “secure the partner ecosystem,” referring to partner firms that work to sign up software clients to Azure’s cloud services.

The decision brings Microsoft in line with other tech companies. Google Cloud also prevented the use of its servers for crypto mining without written approval, while Oracle and OVH have outright banned it. Meanwhile, Amazon Web Services (AWS) only allows crypto mining within its paid tiers. 

Many private companies have taken issue with crypto mining over its energy footprint, prompting them to disassociate from the industry. One includes Mozilla – which ceased accepting donations from Proof-of-Work-based cryptos in January.