BEIJING, July 17 (Xinhuanet) -- Microsoft has written to the U.S. Attorney General for freedom to disclose how it handles requests from national security organizations for customer data.

The appeal comes a week after the UK-based Guardian newspaper reported that Microsoft allowed U.S. security agencies to circumvent encryption of Outlook emails and capture Skype online chats. The newspaper cited leaked documents provided by whistleblower Edward Snowden.

Last week, Microsoft said there were "significant inaccuracies" in media reports. The company asserts it does not allow any government direct or unfettered access to customers’ emails, instant messages or data.

(Source: CNTV.cn)