Hey there, folks! Have you heard about the latest move by Microsoft to protect its users from online scams? With the recent update to the Edge browser, Microsoft has rolled out an AI-powered scareware blocker designed to detect and block potential scams.
Microsoft Edge Steps Up with AI Scareware Blocker
The most recent update to Microsoft Edge brings a new security feature aimed at helping users steer clear of suspicious websites. This scareware blocker, powered by AI, is set to provide a safer browsing experience for all Edge users.
In a recent post on their official blog, Microsoft explained how this new feature uses data and machine learning to identify and block websites that may be linked to online scams.
Scareware is a term used to describe online scams that play on fear to deceive victims. One common example is tech support scams, where scammers use alarming messages about technical issues, device hacking, and malware to dupe users into contacting them for “help.” These scams often result in victims losing control of their devices to the scammers through malware attacks.
Despite the various forms these scams take, scareware remains a prevalent cyber threat, successfully fooling many users.
Up until now, Microsoft Edge has shielded users from known cyber threats with Defender SmartScreen. However, with this latest browser update, Microsoft is taking proactive steps to protect users from such dangers. With Edge version 133, users will have access to a dedicated “Scareware blocker” feature. You can find and enable this feature in the browser Settings under the “Privacy, search, and services” tab.
Once activated, the browser will scan websites for telltale signs of deception, such as tech support numbers, attempts to take over your keyboard and mouse, or forcing full-screen mode. If a potentially harmful site is detected, the browser will block it and warn you about the possible scam. You can then choose to proceed (if you trust the site and believe the warning is a false alarm) or steer clear.
Microsoft has even shared a video demonstrating how the new tool works.
Get a Sneak Peek at the Scareware Blocker
The Scareware blocker feature is currently in “preview” mode. Microsoft is inviting users to opt into sharing their browsing data with the tool and provide feedback on its performance to reduce false alarms and enhance its effectiveness.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this exciting development. Feel free to share your comments below!
