Microsoft to block XLL add-ins from internet to fight malware attacks.
Microsoft is introducing a new security measure to improve the safety of its customers from malware attacks. As highlighted by the HP Wolf Security Threat Insights Report and Cisco Talos, the number of malicious attacks using XLL add-ins has been on the rise. XLL is an extension for Excel add-ins and basically a DLL (dynamic-link libraries) file, which is commonly installed by admins. However, since the XLL file extension is linked with an icon similar to other Excel-supported extensions, users might mistake them for other Excel file formats and click on the “enable” button to activate the add-in, unknowingly executing the malicious code in the background.
Microsoft 365 users will soon have better protection from these malware attacks as the company is set to block XLL add-ins from the internet once the new capability becomes generally available in March. This means that users will be safe from bad actors relying on the web to distribute their malware. The software giant also advises users to turn down download links, attachments, or emails containing the file, especially from suspicious senders and websites, as bad actors can disguise the files to make them appear like legit documents.
The upcoming security measure is a welcome addition to Microsoft 365 users as it will help protect them from malicious attacks. It is also a much-needed step to address the growing number of malware attacks, which have become increasingly prevalent in recent months. With the new feature, users will have the assurance that their data and information are secure from malicious actors and their activities.
Overall, Microsoft’s new security measure will be a great addition to the software giant’s suite of products. It will provide users with the assurance that their data and information are secure from malicious actors and their activities. The new feature will also help to address the growing number of malware attacks, which have become increasingly prevalent in recent months. It is a much-needed step to ensure that users are safe from bad actors relying on the web to distribute their malware.
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