Like Google and Digital Ocean, cloud computing organization, Microsoft, has decided to prohibit its users from mining cryptocurrencies without written permission.

Now, Microsoft customers would have to collect a written pre-approval document from the company in order to use the online service, Microsoft Azure, to mine cryptocurrencies.

The news came on December 15 with Microsoft enforcing new rules and regulations on crypto mining so as to boast the stability of its cloud services. The new rules have become a part of Microsoft Online Services’ general license terms.

The “Acceptable Use Policy” section in the license terms now states that users must obtain written permission from Microsoft before employing the use of any Microsoft Online Service to mine crypto.

Reports state that the cloud computing giant introduced these restrictions on cryptocurrency mining with the objective to protect its services from risks, such as cyber-attacks, fraud, and unauthorized access to customer data.

“We made this change to further protect our customers and mitigate the risk of disrupting or impairing services in the Microsoft Cloud.”

There are also reports that Microsoft users might need pre-approval to mine cryptocurrencies for experimental and research purposes.

What are Microsoft Online Services?

Microsoft Online Services are a suite of online services provided by Microsoft that enable organizations and individuals to use Microsoft-hosted versions of various software and services over the Internet. These services include popular products, such as Microsoft Office, Exchange, and SharePoint, as well as cloud-based versions of these and other products, such as Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Azure Active Directory. 

Microsoft Online Services are designed to be used over the Internet, allowing users to access the services from anywhere with an internet connection. They offer a range of benefits, including the ability to access the latest versions of software without having to purchase and install them on individual computers, as well as the ability to share and collaborate on documents and other content with others in real time.