Evaluating Microsoft Warnings About Potential Security Concerns
Has a Microsoft 365 (Office) application sent you this warning: "Microsoft Office has identified a potential security concern"? Learn how to evaluate these security concern prompts.
Background
When you receive a prompt from a Microsoft Office application that warns, “Microsoft Office has identified a potential security concern,” it means that the application has detected something that could potentially harm your computer or compromise your data.
This Outlook feature can be triggered by embedded links in an email or by attached documents in the preview pane. Embedded links are often used by attackers to get targets to click the link without knowing the destination URL.
Evaluate the Security Concern Prompt
- Hover your mouse pointer over the link to show the true destination URL.
- Consider the source of the file.
- If you were expecting to receive it and the file is from a trusted source, you can choose to enable the content.
- However, if you are unsure about the source of the file or were not expecting to receive it, it's best to err on the side of caution and not enable the content.
- Still uncertain? Place a Security Assessment Request with the IT Services TechSquad.
It's important to always be cautious when handling files from unknown sources and to keep your security settings up to date to protect your computer and data.