In an effort to protect children from potential harm, Microsoft have vowed to close down most of its internet chat rooms.
Following on from a growing number of news alerts of paedophiles "grooming" children for abuse, the corporation has made a landmark descision.
Operating though 34 countries, Microsofts range of MSN websites offer chat facilities to millions of people.
Microsoft will be keeping some chat rooms open. The ones which remain open will either be closely monitored for content, or will be run on a subscription basis, allowing Microsoft (and local authorities) to easily trace individuals.
Head of Customer Satisfaction at MSN UK, Matt Whittingham said, "Most people treat this type of service with respect but we have found that chatrooms - and not only ours - are increasingly being used for inappropriate communications. Many of those using chatrooms are young and interested in sex and going out. Unfortunately we know paedophiles have exploited this and the freedom they get from chatrooms to target children. We have had enough of our services being used in this way which is why we have decided to close those which are free and not monitored."
Microsoft will start closing unmoderated chatrooms immediately and will have them all closed by 14th October 2003.
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