Microsoft announced that it would not be disclosing the customers' emails stored in a server based in Ireland, despite the U.S. court order on Friday.
Earlier this month, Microsoft contended that the U.S government should not pressure American tech companies to turn over emails stored in servers located outside of the country, as these emails should have the same privacy protection as regular mail. The company received a search warrant from the federal authorities to obtain copies of emails on an unnamed user involved in a drug case. Microsoft refused to comply and disputed that the warrant was unacceptable because the server is based in Ireland.
U.S. District Judge Loretta Preska of Manhattan reviewed the warrant and ruled that it was valid. However, on Friday, she issued a suspension on the order to give Microsoft ample time to prepare for their appeal. She gave both parties until Sept. 5 to present their final appeal.
Microsoft, on the other hand, remained firm on their initial standpoint that they will not turn over any of the emails, even if the U.S. government issues a warrant.
"Microsoft will not be turning over the email and plans to appeal," a Microsoft spokesperson told Reuters. "Everyone agrees this case can and will proceed to the appeals court. This is simply about finding the appropriate procedure for that to happen."
This case is just one of the cases in which a corporation refused to carry out a search warrant issued by the U.S. government. Other technology companies are also monitoring how Microsoft is going to handle the order. If the U.S. government triumphs the case, it would undeniably cause a strain on potential business prospects knowing that the government can easily obtain personal data of individuals.
Companies such as Cisco Systems, Verizon Communications, AT&T, and Apple have sent out briefs that express their support to Microsoft's decision to appeal the court order.
