Microsoft Permanently Suspends Hijacked Account, Wiping 25 Years of Data
The case shows the fragility of digital ownership when a platform's security policies can result in permanent loss of purchased content and personal data, with legal recourse varying by jurisdiction.
Reporting from 1 source: Automaton.
A Dutch content creator's Microsoft account was hijacked and then permanently suspended by Microsoft after he requested support, resulting in the loss of 25 years of data, Xbox game library, and OneDrive files. The incident has sparked discussion about digital ownership and account recovery, especially given a recent Brazilian court case where a user won restoration and compensation.
The affected user, Joshua Khane, is a Dutch streamer who broadcasts on Twitch and Kick. His account was hijacked in early July. He filled out a recovery form but received no response within 72 hours. After he contacted Microsoft on X, the company resumed the investigation but then sent an email on July 14 stating the account would be permanently suspended. Microsoft confirmed unauthorized access but said the security information had been changed, and under its terms it cannot restore security settings. As a result, OneDrive files and Xbox game licenses are lost. A similar case in Brazil ended with a court ordering restoration and a $400 payment. Khane has not announced a lawsuit, but the precedent has drawn attention.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 1 cited source below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.