Do you worry about harmful links being shared at work? Microsoft is taking another step to help reduce that concern. A new feature for Teams aims to make it harder for phishing attempts and misleading URLs to slip through unnoticed. Here’s what to know about this update and how it supports your organization’s cybersecurity efforts.
Understanding the Threat of Phishing
Phishing is one of the most common tactics used in cyberattacks. It usually involves a message that looks like it’s from a trusted source, but it contains harmful content. These scams try to catch people off guard by including links or attachments meant to steal information or install malware.
Many modern phishing messages don’t raise obvious red flags. They often avoid asking for personal details directly. Instead, they rely on subtle tactics that encourage a click. Once someone interacts with the wrong link, they can be taken to sites designed to steal passwords or compromise devices.
How URL Scanning Works Inside Microsoft Teams
Microsoft recently shared an update in its roadmap announcing a security feature designed to catch these kinds of threats inside Teams. The feature, called “Malicious URL Protection for Teams Chat and Channels,” focuses on real-time scanning of links.
Each URL shared in a message is checked against Microsoft’s threat intelligence system. If something looks suspicious or matches known malicious data, alerts are generated immediately.
When this happens, the person who sent the link is notified and given the option to change or remove the message. Meanwhile, the person receiving the message will see a warning before any interaction with the link is allowed. This helps reduce the risk of accidental clicks that could lead to bigger problems.
What to Expect When the Feature Rolls Out
This protection will be available in November across mobile and web versions of Teams. There’s no need for extra setup. The scanning feature will be turned on by default for supported platforms, including Android, iOS, and browser-based Teams access.
That means this upgrade will be widely applied and ready to reinforce workplace communication channels as soon as it goes live.
Strengthening Protection Beyond the Default Tools
While this new Teams capability is helpful, it should only be one part of your broader security plan. Good habits and the right tools work together to create a safer environment for everyone.
Encouraging employees to pause before clicking links is a powerful step. Team members should get used to spotting unusual messages and checking where links actually point before taking action. If the source doesn’t come from an internal system or verified contact, it’s worth a closer look.
Using additional link-filtering and malware detection software is also a smart move. There are many third-party options built with advanced technology that monitor and flag threats in real time, giving your team another layer of protection.
Making Cybersecurity a Shared Responsibility
The new Microsoft Teams link scanning feature is a welcome addition for helping prevent phishing attacks at work. It shows where communication platforms are headed and how security must keep pace with daily usage.
By combining automatic tools like this with employee training and modern monitoring systems, your company stands a better chance at staying ahead of evolving threats. Informed teams and smart technology together can make a powerful difference.
