MC1112452 – (Updated) Microsoft Outlook | Outlook Mobile: New unverified sender banner in reading pane

Product:

Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook

Platform:

Android, iOS, mobile, Online, Web, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

Feature update, Updated message, User impact

Links:

491471

Details:

Summary:
Outlook Mobile will show a new banner in the reading pane for emails from unverified senders, warning users about potential impersonation. This feature, rolling out July to October 2025, aligns with desktop and web versions and requires no admin action, though user awareness is recommended.

Details:
Updated September 23, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
We're introducing a new visual indicator in the reading pane of Outlook Mobile (iOS and Android) to help users identify messages from unverified senders. This feature aligns with existing functionality in Outlook for desktop and web, bringing a consistent experience across platforms. When a message is from a sender we couldn't verify as safe, users will see a banner in the reading pane warning them to be cautious.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 491471.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out mid-July 2025 and expect to complete by late October 2025 (previously mid-September).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-07-10

updated:
2025-09-24

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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MS workload name

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linked item details

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Confusion
Users may misinterpret the unverified sender banner as a sign of spam or phishing, leading to unnecessary alarm and potential disregard for legitimate emails.
   - roles: End Users, Customer Support
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/office/phishing-and-suspicious-behavior-in-outlook-0d882ea5-eedc-4bed-aebc-079ffa1105a3, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=491471

Increased Support Queries
The introduction of the banner may lead to an increase in support queries from users seeking clarification on the meaning and implications of the unverified sender warning.
   - roles: IT Support, Help Desk
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/office/phishing-and-suspicious-behavior-in-outlook-0d882ea5-eedc-4bed-aebc-079ffa1105a3, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=491471

Configutation Options**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft Outlook is introducing a new feature on its mobile app that will help users identify emails from unverified senders. This is similar to how you might receive a package at home. If the delivery person is someone you recognize, you feel safe accepting the package. But if it's someone you've never seen before, you might be more cautious and check the package carefully before opening it. In the same way, Outlook will now show a banner on emails from senders it can't verify, prompting users to be careful, as these emails could potentially be attempts at impersonation.

This feature is already available on the desktop and web versions of Outlook, and now it's being added to the mobile app for a consistent experience across all platforms. Users will see a banner in the reading pane of their emails if the sender is unverified, warning them to be cautious. This complements existing safety indicators like "External sender" or "Not on safe senders list."

No action is required from administrators to enable this feature, as it will be available by default. However, it's advisable to inform users about this new visual cue so they understand its purpose. If your organization provides training or documentation on email safety, it might be a good idea to update it to include information about this new banner. This way, users can be better prepared to recognize and handle potentially suspicious emails.