Microsoft has reportedly implemented a policy that blocks internal emails containing the words "Palestine," "Gaza," or "genocide" on its Exchange servers. This action was first detected by "No Azure for Apartheid," a group of pro-Palestine Microsoft employees, shortly after the company's Build developer conference faced disruptions from the activist group.
The automated filter silently prevents such emails from reaching recipients. Notably, the terms "Israel" and "P4lestine" do not trigger the block, according to the group. Microsoft has not immediately responded to requests for comment on this matter.
This development follows a series of internal protests and disruptions at Microsoft events. Employees have expressed dissent over the company's collaboration with the Israeli military, particularly concerning the provision of cloud services and AI technologies. Reports indicate that Microsoft actively pursued contracts with the Israeli Ministry of Defense, offering tailored proposals and significant discounts on cloud and AI services. These deals positioned Microsoft as a key technology provider during Israeli military operations in Gaza. (theguardian.com)
In response to allegations, Microsoft conducted an internal review and stated that it "found no evidence that Microsoft's Azure and AI technologies, or any of our other software, have been used to harm people."
The company's actions have led to increased internal dissent, with employees organizing under the "No Azure for Apartheid" campaign, demanding that Microsoft sever ties with the Israeli military. The recent email filtering policy is perceived by some as an attempt to suppress internal discourse on the issue. (theguardian.com)
As of now, Microsoft has not provided further comments on the email filtering policy or the ongoing internal protests.
Source: Drop Site News Microsoft Bans the Word “Palestine” in Internal Emails
