Microsoft issuing permanent Xbox LIVE bans for Halo 4 pirates

As I'm sure most of you are aware, Halo 4 leaked onto torrent sites over the weekend, giving those who owned a modded Xbox 360 console a chance to play the highly anticipated game prior to its November 6th release. In case you didn't realize, that's illegal, and Microsoft is taking the appropriate actions against those who did so.

Users on Reddit report Microsoft's Live enforcement team is sending emails notifying pirates that they've been permanently banned from Xbox LIVE for "prerelease title play".

"During your suspension, you will not be able to log into Xbox LIVE," the notification reads. "Your Xbox LIVE privileges will not be reinstated."

"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," Microsoft said in a statement.

"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."