A report in the Guardian claims Microsoft helped the NSA to bypass data encryption by users of its services. Microsoft is alleged to have taken steps to ensure that the NSA had continuous access to data sent via its Outlook.com email portal. In a statement, Microsoft stressed that it only cooperates with the authorities where legally required to do so. The report is based on further documents disclosed by Edward Snowden, who previously worked for the NSA. Microsoft stresses that it is obliged to provide the authorities with the ability to access this information.”]