Exchange Online users are facing a significant issue: legitimate emails are being marked as spam. This problem was first reported on February 5 and has since garnered attention from Microsoft. The situation has impacted users’ ability to send and receive crucial messages.
Understanding the Issue with Exchange Online
The root of the problem lies in a recently implemented URL rule. This new rule mistakenly identifies genuine emails as phishing attempts. Microsoft explained that updated criteria for detecting suspicious emails have resulted in false positives. Consequently, URLs associated with these emails are flagged as malicious, leading to the quarantine of important messages.
Current Status of the Problem
While Microsoft is making efforts to resolve the issue, not all affected emails are accessible in users’ inboxes. Some quarantined messages may be recoverable, but many remain trapped until a full resolution is achieved.
What Steps to Take
If you encounter this spam issue with legitimate emails, follow these steps to retrieve your messages:
- Visit the Quarantine page for Microsoft Defender.
- Sign in using your work or school account.
- Review your list of quarantined messages.
- If you find a legitimate email, click on it and select the Release button.
Releasing the email will return it to your inbox for future access.
Causes Behind the Email Filtering Glitch
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in combating sophisticated spam and phishing tactics. As scammers develop more advanced methods, companies like Microsoft continuously update their security measures. Unfortunately, these adaptations can sometimes lead to excessive filtering, which negatively impacts user experience.
Conclusion and Outlook
Microsoft is actively addressing the issue plaguing Exchange Online users. It’s essential for users to regularly check their quarantined emails during this time. With ongoing efforts, a comprehensive solution is anticipated, aiming to restore proper email functionality for all users.
