Phishing

How Outlook helps fight phishing emails

31.01.2025
Phishing emails are one of the most common methods cybercriminals use to steal sensitive information or spread malware. To combat this, Microsoft Outlook provides a "Report as Phished" button, a critical tool for maintaining your email security.

Here’s what happens when you report a phishing email and why this feature is crucial for protecting yourself and others:

  1. Email Removal: Reporting a phishing email in Outlook removes it from your inbox, reducing the risk of accidental interaction with harmful links or attachments.
  2. Notification to IT/Security Teams: Your organization's IT or security team is alerted, enabling them to investigate and address the threat.
  3. Contribution to Microsoft Security Systems: The information is sent to Microsoft’s threat intelligence systems, which use it to block similar threats, remove malicious emails from other inboxes, and enhance overall security. Note that Microsoft typically does not provide direct feedback to the reporting user.
  4. Cyber Awareness Training Feedback: If you’re enrolled in IPCOM Cyber Awareness training, the email is forwarded to Phished for feedback. If the email was not part of their campaign, you will be advised to exercise caution, as it didn’t originate from them.
Report Phishing Outlook

Why Reporting Matters

Clicking "Report as Phished" is a simple but powerful action. It removes threats from your inbox, contributes to global cybersecurity, and strengthens your organization’s defences. By reporting suspicious emails, you play an active role in the fight against phishing, protecting not just yourself but the broader digital community.