Microsoft perma-banning Halo 4 pirates

Permanent Xbox Live bans are being handed out to Xbox 360 owners who have illegally pirated Halo 4.

The game became available online over the weekend, but can only be played by users who have modded their Xbox 360 console to run pirated code. And have then been daft enough to connect to Xbox Live.

This email is to notify you that your Xbox Live privileges have been permanently suspended due to illegitimate prerelease title play,” the warning email reads.

Because your conduct is in violation, the Xbox Live Enforcement Team has issued a permanent suspension. Your Xbox Live privileges will not be reinstated.”

The game won’t be released until November 6th. Microsoft is investigating the source of the leak.

"We are aware of isolated cases in which Halo 4 content has been propped on the web and are working closely with our security teams and law enforcement to address the situation immediately,” a Microsoft statement read.

"Consumers should be aware that piracy is illegal and we take vigorous action against illegal activity related to our products and services. Playing pirated copies of games, such as Halo 4, is a violation of the Xbox Live Terms of Use and will result in enforcement action, such as account and console bans."

Here’s the email being sent to offending users: