Online scareware is a growing business risk
When was the last time you saw a pop up claiming your computer was infected?
These messages often appear suddenly, fill the screen with urgent warnings, and claim to come from Microsoft support. They are designed to look convincing and create panic.
This type of attack is known as scareware. Its purpose is to pressure users into handing over money, passwords, or access to their device. Even careful users can be caught off guard, particularly in busy working environments.
For businesses, the risk is even higher. One employee reacting to a fake warning can expose systems, data, and finances. The new Microsoft scam protection is about to have a big impact in preventing this.
Microsoft scam protection strengthens browser security
Microsoft has responded by introducing new Microsoft scam protection within its Edge browser.
A recent update includes an advanced Scareware Blocker that uses artificial intelligence to stop fake alerts before users interact with them. This feature is switched on by default for most newer devices and runs quietly in the background.
This update forms part of Microsoft’s wider effort to make Edge one of the most secure browsers available for Windows and Mac users.
How the Scareware Blocker works
The Scareware Blocker uses an AI powered model that recognises the visual patterns commonly used by scam pages. These include full screen alerts that mimic system warnings and messages claiming your device is infected or at immediate risk.
When Edge detects this behaviour, it closes the page instantly. Users do not need to make a judgement call or click a button. The threat is removed before any damage occurs.
This is particularly valuable for teams who may not always spot a scam straight away while juggling multiple tasks.
Smarter protection through shared intelligence
Microsoft’s Defender SmartScreen system also plays a key role in this Microsoft scam protection.
When a user reports a scam, SmartScreen learns from it and blocks the same threat for other users. In many cases, this happens hours or even days before the scam appears on global threat lists.
Testing showed that a single report could prevent around fifty other people from being targeted. This shared intelligence approach helps protect businesses at scale.
Real time detection without compromising privacy
The latest version of Edge also includes a new scareware sensor designed to identify emerging scams in real time, another form of Microsoft’s scam protection for Edge users.
This sensor works without sending personal data or screenshots to Microsoft. It improves detection while respecting user privacy. Although it is currently switched off, Microsoft has confirmed it will soon activate automatically for users with SmartScreen enabled.
Why this matters for small and medium sized businesses
Scams are becoming more frequent and more sophisticated. While individuals remain a target, small and medium sized businesses are increasingly in the spotlight.
Cyber criminals know that businesses rely on speed and trust. One wrong click can lead to stolen credentials, financial loss, or ransomware attacks that disrupt operations.
Microsoft scam protection within Edge helps reduce this risk. AI driven security reacts faster than people can and closes common gaps caused by human error.
What your business should do next
If your organisation uses Microsoft Edge, ensure all devices are running the latest version so this new Microsoft scam protection is active.
Browser security is an important layer, but it should sit alongside regular reviews of your wider security setup.
If you are unsure how well your systems are protected against scams and cyber threats, a security audit is a sensible next step. The Amshire team can help you assess your current position and strengthen your defences.
Get in contact to start the conversation.