Microsoft Teams Adds Stronger Bot Protection
Microsoft Teams is rolling out a new policy that can automatically block external bots from meetings. The feature gives administrators greater control over meeting security.
Previously, Teams placed detected bots in the lobby for organizer approval. Now, admins can configure meetings to block identified external bots automatically. The new control appears under Manage bots in the Teams admin center. It remains disabled by default, so administrators must activate it before use. Microsoft began a targeted rollout in August. The company expects worldwide general availability by late September.
New Policy Helps Reduce Security Risks
Teams external bot blocking can stop third-party bots from entering protected meetings. Such bots can support useful tasks, including transcription and note-taking. However, attackers could also abuse automated tools for malicious purposes. Microsoft has warned about increasing Teams attacks involving impersonated IT and helpdesk workers. These campaigns can trick employees into granting remote access. Attackers May Then Use Stolen Access
Move through corporate networks and steal sensitive information. Therefore, administrators can use the new policy as another layer of meeting protection. They can also assign the setting to specific users or groups through existing Teams meeting policies.
Microsoft plans additional controls for bot management. Future options may include approved-bot allowlists, audit logs, admin reports, and more detailed security settings.
The company introduced smarter bot detection earlier this year. That system identifies bots in the meeting lobby before organizers decide whether to admit them. This latest policy gives organizations a stronger automated option. As a result, businesses can reduce unwanted automated participants without depending on meeting organizers.
The update should benefit organizations that handle confidential discussions. It also gives security teams more control over external participants across Microsoft Teams.
