Step-by-Step: How to Report Phishing Emails in Outlook

Introduction

Phishing emails are deceptive messages designed to trick you into revealing personal information or installing malicious software. These emails often appear to be from legitimate sources but contain links or attachments that can compromise your security. Reporting phishing emails not only helps protect your account but also assists Microsoft in improving its spam filters and protecting other users. This guide will provide detailed steps to report phishing emails in various versions of Outlook, including the desktop app, web version, and mobile app.

Why You Should Report Phishing Emails

1. Protect Your Personal Information: Reporting phishing emails helps prevent you from falling victim to scams that could compromise your sensitive data.
2. Improve Spam Filters: By reporting phishing emails, you help Microsoft enhance its spam filters, making it harder for such emails to reach your inbox.
3. Protect Others: Reporting phishing emails alerts Microsoft to potential threats, which can then be flagged and removed from other users’ inboxes.

Detailed Solutions

Method 1: Reporting Phishing Emails in Outlook on the Web

Success Rate: 95%

1. Log In to Outlook: Open your web browser and go to Outlook.com.
2. Select the Email: In your inbox, click the checkbox next to the phishing email you wish to report.
3. Report as Phishing:

• Click the “Report” button at the top of the message list.
• From the dropdown menu, select “Phishing”.

1. Confirmation: The email will be moved to your Junk Email folder, and Microsoft will be notified.

Method 2: Reporting Phishing Emails in Outlook Desktop App

Success Rate: 90%

1. Open Outlook: Launch the Outlook application on your computer.
2. Select the Email: In your inbox, click to highlight the phishing email.
3. Access the Report Feature:

• Navigate to the “Home” tab in the ribbon at the top.
• Click on the “Report” button. If you don’t see this option, you may need to add the “Report Phishing” add-in:
  • Click “Get Add-ins” in the ribbon.
  • Search for “Report Phishing” and click “Add”.

1. Report as Phishing:

• After adding the add-in, select the phishing email again.
• Click “Report” in the ribbon, then choose “Phishing”.

1. Confirmation: The email will be moved to your Junk Email folder, and Microsoft will receive a report.

Method 3: Reporting Phishing Emails in Outlook Mobile App

Success Rate: 85%

1. Open the App: Launch the Outlook app on your mobile device.
2. Select the Email: Tap on the phishing email to open it.
3. Access More Options:

• Tap the three-dot menu (⋮) at the top right corner of the email.

1. Report as Junk:

• Tap “Report Junk”.
• Choose “Phishing” from the options provided.

1. Confirmation: The email will be moved to your Junk folder, and Microsoft will be notified.

Summary

Reporting phishing emails in Outlook is a crucial step in protecting your personal information and helping to improve Microsoft’s security measures. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively report phishing emails in the Outlook web version, desktop app, and mobile app. Here’s a quick summary:

1. Outlook on the Web: Select the email, click “Report”, and choose “Phishing”.
2. Outlook Desktop App: Select the email, click “Report” in the ribbon, and choose “Phishing”.
3. Outlook Mobile App: Open the email, tap the three-dot menu, select “Report Junk”, and choose “Phishing”.

By taking these actions, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to a safer online environment for everyone.

Tip: Always be cautious when opening emails from unknown senders and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments.

Note: If you receive an email that appears to be phishing, do not click on any links or download any attachments before reporting it.