Microsoft has decided to disable its instant messaging service for five countries embargoed by the United States. In Syria, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Cuba, Internet users can no longer connect to Windows Live Messenger. The Associated Press reported that this decision by Microsoft has been criticized by Cuba, the Cuban press, speaking in particular of a severe violation of the rights of Cubans, while the Microsoft service was operational for almost ten years.

According to the director of the department Windows Live Product Management at Microsoft, he now enjoys media coverage, this date actually blocking the end of last year at the launch of the latest products Windows Live.

For Dharmesh Mehta, Microsoft is one of the major companies involved in the Internet have taken steps not to do business with markets sanctioned by the USA. However, he said:
Microsoft supports efforts to ensure that the Internet remains a platform for free and open content and commerce. Governments should exercise restraint in regulating the Internet.

Cuba who seems inclined to adopt the free software to replace Windows applications and avoid the decisions of U.S. technology companies (with a limitation in terms of software licenses granted), has an internet connection provided via satellite from countries like Canada and Italy.

Lack of sufficient bandwidth, the Internet is mainly reserved for schools, workplaces and post offices, said the AP, while emphasizing that Cuba also handles censorship.