Microsoft is enhancing Teams security with new features designed to protect users from brand impersonation and malicious external callers. These updates, rolling out in mid-February, aim to combat social engineering attacks where criminals pose as legitimate organizations to steal information or money.
How Brand Impersonation Protection Works
Teams will now analyze incoming Voice over IP (VoIP) calls from external contacts who are calling for the first time, looking for signs of brand or identity abuse. If a high risk is detected, users will receive a warning before answering the call. This allows users to choose to accept,block,or decline the call. The warning can also remain active during the call if new suspicious signals emerge. This proactive approach helps prevent users from falling victim to scams.
Minimal IT Impact, Increased User Awareness
Microsoft states that this new security layer requires no additional configuration from IT administrators. However, the company recommends preparing helpdesks and support teams to address potential questions from end-users. Organizations should also update internal documentation and security awareness training materials to reflect this new protection.
Expanding Security Measures in Microsoft Teams
This announcement builds on Microsoft’s broader efforts to improve Teams security. recently, Microsoft announced the ability for organizations to block external messages via Defender for Cloud Apps, providing another layer of defense against phishing and other threats. Microsoft is also improving standard security in Teams, focusing on a zero-trust approach to communication.
Key Takeaways
- Proactive Warnings: Teams will warn users about potentially fraudulent calls before they are answered.
- No Admin Configuration: The Brand Impersonation Protection feature is enabled by default and requires no setup.
- User Education is Key: Organizations should prepare support teams and update training materials.
- Part of a Larger Security Strategy: This feature complements other Teams security enhancements, like external message blocking.
Microsoft’s continued investment in Teams security demonstrates it’s commitment to protecting users from increasingly sophisticated threats. As communication platforms become prime targets for cybercriminals, these proactive measures are essential for maintaining a secure collaboration surroundings.