New Microsoft Edge Feature: Scareware Blocker

In this video, John Hammond interviews Rob Franco from Microsoft to discuss a new security feature in Microsoft Edge: the scareware blocker. This feature aims to protect users from online scams, including fake tech support alerts and frightening pop-ups. Rob Franco, who works on browser security at Microsoft, explains how the idea for this feature came to him while he was searching for advice on fixing his lawnmower. He clicked on an ad that led him to a scareware site, an experience that prompted him to develop a solution to protect users from such threats. The scareware blocker works in conjunction with SmartScreen, an existing Microsoft technology that protects users from malicious sites. However, there is often a delay between when a malicious site starts its activities and when SmartScreen detects it. The scareware blocker acts as a first line of defense, analyzing web pages for suspicious behavior before SmartScreen even intervenes. When a user visits a suspicious site, the scareware blocker analyzes the page for signs of fraud, such as attempts to take control of the screen or play alarming audio tracks. If the model detects a threat, it takes the page out of full-screen mode and reduces it to a small window, making it easier to close the page. Users can also send feedback to help improve protection against these threats. John Hammond emphasizes the importance of this feature, especially for elderly people or those more likely to fall for these scams. Although this feature is currently available in Microsoft Edge, John and Rob discuss the possibility of integrating it into other browsers to provide broader protection. Rob Franco mentions that the scareware blocker is currently in preview but available on all channels. User feedback is essential to improve this feature and make it available by default for all users. He expresses his gratitude to users who send feedback, highlighting the importance of collaboration in fighting these threats. In conclusion, this video highlights an important initiative by Microsoft to improve online security. The scareware blocker is a significant advancement in the fight against online scams, and its continued development demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to protecting its users.