Archives - Microsoft

Turn on two-factor authentication for your Microsoft account

Enabling multifactor authentication is a powerful way to help secure your digital identity, and your Microsoft account could grant unauthorized users access to a lot of personal data if they manage to compromise your password. To turn on two-factor authentication, log in to your Microsoft account online. Select the Security tab, then “More security options.” […]

Download an authenticator app

Given that it’s possible to use SIM swap scams to get around traditional two-factor authentication, which typically relies on one-time passcodes sent over SMS, downloading an authenticator app can provide some additional security for select accounts. Google and Microsoft have apps that are widely used.

Best practices for Office 365 security

As businesses shifted to accommodate the needs of their newly remote workforces following the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers took note. In order to exploit the uncertainty surrounding the rapid deployment of new software and security solutions, they engaged in deceptive phishing attacks. Targeting Office 365 credentials TechRadar reported on one such attack that encouraged recipients to […]

Viruses can be hidden in Microsoft Word documents

Use caution when downloading documents and templates attached to emails. They might contain macros-related viruses, which are designed to infect files like Microsoft Word documents. Once you download and open the attachment, the infection will spread, embedding itself in other documents on your computer.

Watch out for macros in Microsoft Office

A Microsoft Office macro is a shortcut. It contains code that allows a certain sequence of steps to be automatically performed within documents. Unfortunately, macros have long been favorite tools among cyberattackers, who use them to run malicious code. Unless you absolutely need them, consider disabling macros in the Trust Center of Microsoft Office to […]

Use the latest versions of Microsoft Office and other popular applications

Microsoft Office and productivity software in general are both magnets for cyberattacks, since they’re so widely used, meaning any successful attempt will have huge ripple effects. Accordingly, you should, if possible, use the latest versions of these applications, as they’re much more secure than their predecessors and are patched against many known vulnerabilities.