Want to take advantage of the newest Windows Security features to help protect your PC? You'll find the latest information about Windows Security here.
Potentially Unwanted Software blocking is now on by default
In the Windows 10 May 2020 Update we added Potentially Unwanted App blocking for everyone running Windows 10, but customers who wanted to use it still had to turn it on.
Starting in early August 2021 we’ll begin turning it on by default to make it easier for you to keep your systems performing at their best.
For more information see Potentially unwanted apps will be blocked by default
Be alert for tech support scams
An ongoing problem are scams where people get pop-ups, or unsolicited phone calls, telling them there is something wrong with their computer and imploring them to contact a "tech support agent" to help them. In reality there is generally nothing wrong with their computer and the "agent" is a scammer who wants to steal your information or money, or secretly install malware on your computer. Watch this short video for information on how to spot, and avoid, tech support scams.
Tip: Microsoft will never call you to tell you we've spotted a problem with your computer or account unless you've reached out to us first. If you get an unsolicited call claiming to be from Microsoft support, just hang up.
Free security fundamentals videos
Want a quick set of training videos for you or your business? We've created a new playlist on YouTube of short videos for everyday people. Security basics without a lot of jargon. The entire playlist is less than 15 minutes long and you'll come out of it feeling more confident and prepared to be safer online.
If you're a small business owner consider adding this playlist to your required training for your team.
Updated protection from malware
In some cases, Windows Security will use the cloud to analyze a suspicious program. This analysis helps Windows Security learn about new threats, so it can respond with protection much faster than on earlier versions of Windows.
We’ve improved the cloud-delivered protection and automatic sample submission features included in Windows 10 so that Windows Security can respond to new threats faster. In most cases, Windows Security uses cloud-delivered protection to detect and block threats the very first time it encounters them.
How do I know if I’m protected?
By running Windows Security with cloud-delivered protection and automatic sample submission turned on, you can rest assured that you’re receiving the very highest level of protection from the latest threats. That’s it!
To confirm that you have those turned on, go to Settings > Updates and Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings. There you'll see the settings for Cloud-delivered protection and Automatic sample submission.
Offline scan
Run an offline scan to find and remove malware that can’t be found with a normal scan. To run an offline scan in Windows Security, select Virus & threat protection, and then under Current threats, select Scan options > Microsoft Defender Offline scan > Scan now.
For more tips and information
Visit our Microsoft security help and learning page for more tips and information, including videos and training!
Want more videos? Visit the Microsoft Security channel on YouTube.
