How Defender Protects Excel Users

Overview:

Excel is one of the most widely used - and most frequently targeted - applications in any organization.

From macro-enabled malware and malicious add-ins to weaponized spreadsheets delivered via phishing emails, attackers consistently exploit Excel as an entry point. This webinar reveals exactly how Microsoft Defender protects Excel users across multiple layers - from Defender for Office 365 scanning attachments before delivery, to Defender for Endpoint monitoring macro execution and blocking malicious scripts, to attack surface reduction rules that prevent common Excel-based attack techniques. Attendees will learn practical, Excel-specific security configurations and understand how Defender protections work behind the scenes every time they open a spreadsheet.

Why you should Attend:

Spreadsheet-based attacks exploit familiar workflows. One malicious workbook can trigger credential theft, malware execution, or data leakage unless the organization has the right Defender protections and Excel-specific controls in place.

Areas Covered in the Session:

• The Excel threat landscape: macro malware, malicious add-ins, weaponized spreadsheets, and DDE attacks
• How Safe Attachments scans and detonates Excel files before email delivery
• Safe Links protection for URLs embedded in Excel workbooks and spreadsheets
• Attack surface reduction rules for Excel: blocking macros from the internet, Office child process creation, and Win32 API calls
• Defender for Endpoint monitoring: detecting malicious macro execution and suspicious Excel behaviors
• Protected View, Application Guard, and trusted document settings for Excel
• DLP policies to prevent sensitive data exfiltration from Excel files via email, cloud, or USB
• Practical security configurations: recommended Group Policy and Intune settings for Excel protection

Who Will Benefit:

• Excel Power Users
• Financial Analysts
• Accountants and Controllers
• Data Analysts
• Business Managers
• IT Professionals supporting Excel-centric workflows