Microsoft Suspends Open-Source Project Accounts, Blocking Windows Security Updates
Summary
Microsoft suspended accounts used by WireGuard, VeraCrypt, MemTest86, and Windscribe, blocking Windows releases and security patches. Microsoft said the suspensions followed incomplete mandatory verification; media coverage prompted outreach to help reinstate accounts.
Key points
- Maintainers of WireGuard, VeraCrypt, MemTest86, and Windscribe reported their Microsoft Partner Center accounts were suspended.
- The suspensions prevented affected projects from publishing Windows builds and security patches; some maintainers said Linux and macOS releases remained possible.
- VeraCrypt and WireGuard maintainers reported receiving no prior warning and struggling to reach human support.
- Microsoft said suspensions were automatic for Windows Hardware Program partners who failed mandatory account verification.
- Microsoft's verification process required completion within 30 days; rejected accounts were suspended from the program and could no longer submit updates.
- After media coverage, Microsoft contacted maintainers to help reinstate accounts.
Article Details
- Event Type
- Microsoft suspended developer accounts used by maintainers of high-profile open-source projects to sign and publish Windows software.
- Impact
- The suspensions blocked affected maintainers from publishing Windows builds and security patches, potentially delaying critical updates. VeraCrypt's developer said Linux and macOS releases remained possible. Microsoft said the suspensions were automatic after required Windows Hardware Program account verification was not completed; media coverage prompted outreach to help reinstate accounts.
People
Jason A. DonenfeldWireGuard maintainer who reported that his account was suspended while he was trying to publish an update.Mounir IdrassiVeraCrypt developer whose account was suspended; he said the suspension prevented Windows updates and that Microsoft later contacted him about reinstating the account.Scott HanselmanMicrosoft Vice President who said the developer accounts were automatically suspended after partners failed to complete required account verification, and that the issue would be addressed.
Vendors
Products
MemTest86Affected projects include WireGuard, VeraCrypt, MemTest86, and Windscribe, and Microsoft says the suspensions were automatic for partners who missed mandatory Windows Hardware Program verification, a response that onlyMicrosoft Partner CenterMicrosoft suspended Partner Center accounts used to sign and publish Windows drivers and updates without warning.Microsoft WindowsMicrosoft suspended developer accounts used to publish high-profile open-source projects, blocking maintainers from releasing Windows builds and security patches without prior notification or a quick reinstatement path.VeraCryptAffected projects include WireGuard, VeraCrypt, MemTest86, and Windscribe, and Microsoft says the suspensions were automatic for partners who missed mandatory Windows Hardware Program verification, a response that onlyWindscribeAffected projects include WireGuard, VeraCrypt, MemTest86, and Windscribe, and Microsoft says the suspensions were automatic for partners who missed mandatory Windows Hardware Program verification, a response that onlyWireGuardAffected projects include WireGuard, VeraCrypt, MemTest86, and Windscribe, and Microsoft says the suspensions were automatic for partners who missed mandatory Windows Hardware Program verification, a response that only