How to Report Suspicious Messages in Microsoft Teams

How to Report Suspicious Messages in Microsoft Teams

To better protect the VIU community, the Information Technology (IT) Department has enabled a direct reporting feature in Microsoft Teams. If you receive a suspicious message such as a phishing attempt, an unexpected file, or a request for your credentials, you can flag it directly to our security team.

When to Report a Message

Please report a message if it:

  • Asks for credentials: Requests your password, 2SV codes, or personal info.
  • Contains unexpected "hooks": Includes links or attachments you were not expecting.
  • Uses artificial urgency: Phrases like "Your account will be disabled" or "Action required immediately."
  • Is from an unknown external user: Messages from outside @viu.ca that feel incorrect.

How to Report a Message (Desktop & Web)

  1. Hover over the suspicious message and right click on it.
  2. Select  Report this message.
    Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)
     
  3. In the pop-up window click select report type:

Select Security risk (Spam, phishing, malicious content).

Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)

Optional: Add a brief note (e.g., "Unknown sender asking for login").

  1.  ​​​​​​Select Report.

How to Report a Message (Mobile - iOS/Android)

  1. Press and hold the suspicious message until the menu appears.
  2. Tap Report message.
  3. Select Security concern and tap Report.

What Happens Next?

  • Security Review: The message is forwarded to the VIU IT Security team.
  • Removal: The message will be hidden from your view while under review.
  • Feedback: If malicious, IT will block the sender. If safe, it may be restored.

Note: For suspicious emails, please continue to use the "Report Message" button in Outlook.

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