With Microsoft 365 used by millions of organisations around the world, it’s no surprise that cyber criminals frequently impersonate Microsoft to launch increasingly sophisticated attacks.
These threats are designed to trick users into revealing sensitive information, downloading malware, or compromising their systems, making cyber security training essential for businesses looking to protect their people and data.
Many users will already have received Microsoft security alert emails, some of which are genuine, while others are fraudulent and malicious. Knowing how to distinguish between the two is crucial for protecting your business.
In this blog, we explain what a legitimate Microsoft security alert looks like, how to spot Microsoft alert scams and some best practices to keep your accounts secure.
Table of contents
- What is a Microsoft security alert?
- How to identify a legitimate Microsoft security alert
- What to do if you’re unsure about a Microsoft security alert
- Best practices for Microsoft account security
- Need expert Microsoft support?
What is a Microsoft security alert?
A Microsoft security alert is a notification generated by Microsoft’s security systems to inform users of potential issues, such as suspicious sign-in attempts, password resets or unauthorised access.
While these alerts are essential for safeguarding your data, cybercriminals exploit their urgency to launch phishing attacks. Fake alerts mimic Microsoft’s branding, urging you to click on malicious links or share credentials.
How to identify a legitimate Microsoft security alert
Before acting on any security notification, verify its authenticity first. Here’s what to check:
1. Examine the sender’s email address
Legitimate Microsoft security emails typically come from domains such as @microsoft.com, @accountprotection.microsoft.com or @security.microsoft.com.
Scam emails often use similar, but not legitimate, addresses (e.g. @microsoft-support.com, @secure-microsoft.org). Microsoft users are a prime target for increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Criminals frequently impersonate Microsoft to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, downloading malware, or compromising business systems.
2. Hover over links (but don’t click them)
Legitimate alerts direct you to official Microsoft domains, such as https://www.microsoft.com or https://account.microsoft.com/.
Phishing emails hide malicious links behind apparently helpful text like “Secure your account now”. To preview the URL, hover your cursor over this text without clicking on it. If it looks even slightly suspicious, don’t click the link.
3. Be careful with unexpected attachments
Legitimate security alerts rarely include attachments. If an email prompts you to open a file, treat it with suspicion. Cybercriminals often hide malware within innocuous-looking files.
4. Check for professional language and formatting
Genuine Microsoft emails use clear, professional language without grammatical errors. They will also usually contain personalised information, such as your name and the name of the Microsoft account or service that is affected.
Scams often contain typos and urgent demands, such as “ACT NOW OR YOUR ACCOUNT WILL BE LOCKED!” – or poor formatting, as well as generic greetings and messages.
5. Never share personal information
Microsoft will never ask for:
- Passwords
- Credit card details
- National Insurance Numbers
6. Verify the alert in your Microsoft account
If you’re unsure, log in to your Microsoft account portal. This can be done via https://m365.cloud.microsoft/ or by typing “m365.cloud.microsoft” into your browser; don’t use the link that’s shown in a security email. Check if the same alert appears in your Microsoft Security Dashboard.
Alerts can be verified in the Microsoft 365 Security & Compliance Centre, the Microsoft Entra Admin Centre or your personal account portal at https://account.microsoft.com.
What to do if you’re unsure about a Microsoft security alert
If there’s any doubt about an email’s legitimacy:
- If possible, don’t even open the email. But if you do open it, don’t click on any links, download attachments or reply.
- You can report phishing emails to Microsoft by forwarding them as an attachment to phish@office365.microsoft.com. If using Outlook, use the “Report Phishing” button from the toolbar. You should also inform your IT team about your suspicion.
- Delete the email if it’s confirmed as fraudulent.
Best practices for Microsoft account security
Beyond recognising scams, you can strengthen your defences with these measures:
1. Use strong, unique passwords
Avoid common phrases and anything that contains your personal information, such as your date or place of birth.
Instead, create complex, random passwords that include a variety of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and special characters (e.g. * ! #) – using a password manager is a good way to do this.
Alternatively, consider other methods, like a passkey or SSO, which are much better for security and resistant to phishing. At Texaport, we can help with all of these options.
2. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second verification step (e.g. sending a code via text to a mobile or using an authentication app).
3. Monitor account activity
Regularly review login attempts and connected devices in your Microsoft account. Report anything that is suspicious.
4. Educate your team
Phishing emails remain one of the most common cyber threats faced by businesses today. At Texaport, we help your team stay one step ahead with expert-led cyber security training designed to build awareness and resilience.
Our cyber security training includes:
- Real-time phishing simulations to test and strengthen users’ ability to spot suspicious emails.
- Bite-sized, scenario-based video modules that reflect real-world threats and teach practical response strategies.
- Training is only part of the solution. Texaport also supports you with advanced email filtering and layered security measures to further reduce the risk of scams reaching your inbox.
By staying informed and proactive, you can minimise risks and keep your organisation safe from scams and phishing attacks. When in doubt, always verify before you act.
Keep you and your personal information safe
Managing Microsoft security alerts and protecting your business from scams requires vigilance. If you need help securing your systems, our experts can assist with cyber security solutions and Microsoft 365 support.
Contact us today for tailored Microsoft cyber security solutions – because one click shouldn’t compromise your business.
