Microsoft Teams Security Update: Protection Against Malicious URLs and Dangerous File Types

[johny899]

Let's get real—we've all clicked on a chat link and said to ourselves, "Wait, did I just do that?" I've done it more than once, and each time my heart leaps into my throat. That's why I actually like what Microsoft is bringing to Teams: pre-built safeguard against sneaky links and suspicious files. If you live in Teams all day like I do, this feels like a victory.

What's new in Teams security?​

Microsoft announced that Teams would start scanning and blocking malicious links shared in chat or channels. That is, if someone just drops a malicious link, Teams will warn you even before you get an opportunity to click on it. Along with this, Teams will also start blocking suspicious file types employed by hackers—such as certain scripts or executables known to harbor malware.

Ever loaded up a file that appeared harmless but wasn't? Yeah, exactly.​

Why this is more important than ever

We're all clicking and posting links and files all the time in Teams. Whether it's a co-worker sending you a PDF, or your supervisor sending you to a project website, there's always the risk something bad slips through. And let's be honest—most of us don't take the time to check every link when we've got five things going on.

Attackers know this, which is why they target platforms like Teams. If they trick one person into clicking, they can spread through an entire company like wildfire. That’s why these new protections feel like more than just an update—they’re essential.

Key protections you’ll notice​

Here’s what users and admins can expect:

• Safe Links in Teams: Microsoft Defender checks every URL in real time and flags the bad ones.
• Blocked file types: Threat extensions (.exe or .js) won't pass through chats.
• More admin controls: IT admins can turn the rules up or down on how restrictive Teams should be.

I just love the Safe Links feature. It's saved me in Outlook before, so having it come across to Teams just makes sense.

How Teams stacks up against others​

Slack, Zoom, and Google Chat do have some level of security, but Microsoft is going more toward real-time protection. And in fairness, if you already have Microsoft 365, having security built right into Teams does feel more integrated than bringing in external tools.

Do I think this makes Teams 100% secure? Nope. But it's a step in the right direction in a world where bad actors keep getting smarter.

Final thoughts​

So the bottom line is this: Teams is finally hardening its defenses against obnoxious URLs and malicious file types. That means less heart-stopping moments when you hover your mouse over a suspicious link.

Will it catch every attack? Doubtful. But hey, I'll take any tool that makes my workday less stressful. And if Teams can shield me from the "oops" click links, then I'm in.