Key Takeaways:
- Microsoft is improving Defender for Office 365 to better detect and manage non-RFC-compliant email addresses.
- This change aims to reduce the risk of phishing, spoofing, and impersonation attacks.
- Organizations using non-compliant P2Sender addresses must update their email systems to adhere to RFC standards.
Microsoft is strengthening email security in Defender for Office 365 by improving how it handles non-RFC-compliant sender addresses. These changes aim to prevent email spoofing, phishing, and impersonation attacks.
What are non-RFC compliant emails?
Non-RFC-compliant P2Sender addresses are email sender addresses that fail to meet the formatting standards set by Request for Comments (RFC) documents. These addresses may contain invalid characters, multiple “@” symbols, or other improper formatting, making them vulnerable to exploitation by cybercriminals.
Attackers use malformed email addresses to bypass security filters, disguising harmful messages as legitimate communications. By altering email headers and sender details, they increase the chances of phishing attacks, tricking users into revealing sensitive information.
“We are enhancing our detection mechanisms to better identify and handle non RFC-compliant emails. Users may notice safety tips or warnings in their Outlook clients when they receive messages from non-compliant addresses. These tips are designed to increase awareness and encourage caution when interacting with such emails,” Microsoft explained.
Microsoft aims to gradually improve its security measures that may involve blocking or rejecting emails that don’t adhere to RFC standards. The main goal is to create a safer email environment by minimizing risks associated with phishing, spoofing, and impersonation attacks.
What does this change mean for email senders?
Microsoft advises that email senders who currently use non RFC compliant P2Sender addresses should update their email systems to meet RFC standards. This means that users’ email addresses will comply with established formatting rules, which should ensure that their messages are not flagged by security filters or marked with safety warnings. This transition is important for smooth email delivery and avoiding potential disruptions caused by non-compliant email formats.
Microsoft notes that enforcing RFC compliance will help organizations protect users from spoofing, phishing, and impersonation attacks. This change will also ensure that legitimate emails are delivered quickly and reliably. Additionally, it will promote the adoption of standardized protocols and best practices across the email ecosystem.