How To Avoid Getting Banned From Microsoft Rewards

Microsoft Rewards is one of those hidden gems online—an easy way to earn gift cards, discounts, and even sweepstakes entries just by searching the web or completing simple activities.

I’ve been using it for years, and honestly, it’s surprising how much value you can get without spending a dime.

But here’s the catch: Microsoft is very protective of its program. If they suspect you’re abusing the system, your account can get restricted or banned.

Once that happens, it’s almost impossible to reverse. That’s why it’s so important to understand what Microsoft sees as risky behaviour and how to stay on the safe side.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing anything that could get me banned from Microsoft Rewards?”—this guide is for you.

Why Microsoft Bans Accounts in the First Place

Microsoft Rewards is free to use, but it’s not a free-for-all.

The company invests real money into those gift cards, and like any system, some people try to game it. Microsoft uses automated tools and manual reviews to detect abuse.

Common reasons for bans include:

Suspicious search activity (like spamming random searches to rack up points).
Multiple accounts created to maximize rewards.
Using bots, scripts, or VPNs to trick the system.
Breaking program rules (which many people don’t bother to read).

It might sound strict, but the good news is that avoiding these mistakes is pretty straightforward once you know what to look out for.

Practical Tips to Stay Safe with Microsoft Rewards

I’ll break down the key things I’ve learned to avoid account restrictions:

1. Make Your Searches Natural

The number one reason people get flagged is for robotic search behavior. Typing random letters, spamming the same phrase, or running through lists of nonsense searches can look automated.

Instead:

Search for things you’d actually look up.
Mix up your searches—news, sports, recipes, tech tips, whatever interests you.
Don’t try to do all your searches in one 2-minute sprint. Spread them throughout the day.

Think of it this way: if your search history looks like a human’s, you’re safe. If it looks like a bot, you’re not.

2. Stick to One Account per Person

Creating multiple accounts is tempting—you figure you can double or triple the rewards. But this is one of the fastest ways to get banned.

Microsoft expects one Rewards account per person. If you’re in a household with multiple people, that’s fine. Just make sure each person has their own Microsoft account and earns points individually.

3. Don’t Share or Sell Accounts

Handing your account to someone else, or worse, trying to sell it online, is a guaranteed ban. Rewards are meant for personal use only.

4. Be Careful with VPNs and Proxies

This one trips up a lot of people. If you use a VPN, Microsoft might think you’re trying to fake your location and exploit regional offers. Sometimes even legitimate VPN use can look suspicious.

If you must use a VPN for privacy, try to stick to a consistent region that matches your actual account settings. Avoid hopping between countries.

5. Complete Activities Honestly

Microsoft offers quizzes, polls, and “daily sets” that are fun and rewarding. But don’t rush through them randomly clicking answers just to collect points. That kind of behavior can get flagged.

Take a few extra seconds to engage with them properly. Not only does this look more natural, but some of the quizzes are genuinely interesting.

6. Watch Out for Suspicious Extensions or Scripts

You’ll sometimes see people online sharing browser extensions or scripts that claim to “auto-complete” Microsoft Rewards for you. These are almost always unsafe. They either violate the rules, or worse, steal your login info.

If it’s not officially part of Microsoft Rewards, skip it.

7. Read the Terms Occasionally

I know, nobody loves reading terms and conditions. But Microsoft does update their rules from time to time. A quick skim every few months can save you from accidental violations.

FAQs

Can I get banned just for using it too much?

Not if you’re following the rules. Microsoft sets daily limits for searches and activities. As long as you’re staying within those limits and acting naturally, you’re fine.

What happens if my account gets banned?

Usually, you’ll get a message saying your Rewards account is suspended. You won’t be able to earn or redeem points. In rare cases, Microsoft might allow appeals, but most bans are permanent.

Is it okay to earn points on multiple devices?

Yes, totally fine. I often use my laptop, phone, and Xbox. As long as it’s the same account and you’re not using any shady tools, there’s no problem.

Do points expire if my account is fine?

Yes, Microsoft points can expire if you’re inactive for 18 months. Just keep earning or redeeming occasionally to reset the timer.

What about family accounts?

Microsoft allows family members to pool points. Just make sure everyone has their own Rewards account, and then you can set up a family group to combine points legitimately.