MC1075649 – VBScript deprecation: Detection strategies for Windows

Product:

Windows

Platform:

Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Admin impact

Links:

Details:

Start detecting Visual Basic Scripting Edition (VBScript) across your organization in preparation for the next deprecation phase. See how to use System Monitor (Sysmon), review VBScript dependencies, or scan for .vbs files and custom MSI packages. Once detected, you should proactively migrate away from VBScript. Now that VBScript is enabled by default on Windows 11, version 24H2 and later, you can also proactively disable it in preparation for the next deprecation phase.

When will this happen:
Currently, VBScript is in its first deprecation phase, available as features on demand (FODs) and enabled by default on Windows 11, version 24H2. It's the best time to research and migrate to alternatives. Today's blog article is available to help with this transition. In the future, VBScript FODs will be disabled by default and later removed from Windows.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-05-17

updated:
2025-05-17

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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summary for non-techies**

Microsoft is phasing out VBScript, so organizations should identify its usage through methods like Sysmon monitoring, reviewing dependencies, scanning for .vbs files, and checking custom MSI packages, and then transition to newer technologies to ensure system security and efficiency.

Direct effects for Operations**

VBScript Dependency Issues
If VBScript is not detected and remediated, applications relying on it may fail, leading to disruptions in business processes.
   - roles: Application Developers, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/vbscript-deprecation-detection-strategies-for-windows/4414325

User Experience Degradation
Users may experience errors or crashes in applications that depend on VBScript, resulting in frustration and decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Help Desk Technicians
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/vbscript-deprecation-timelines-and-next-steps/4148301

Increased Support Tickets
Failure to prepare for VBScript deprecation may lead to a surge in support tickets as users encounter issues, overwhelming IT support resources.
   - roles: Help Desk Technicians, IT Managers
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/deprecation-what-it-means-in-the-windows-lifecycle/4372457

Security Vulnerabilities
Continuing to use VBScript without migration may expose the organization to security vulnerabilities, as deprecated features are often targeted by attackers.
   - roles: Security Analysts, System Administrators
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/vbscript-deprecation-timelines-and-next-steps/4148301

Compliance Risks
Using deprecated technologies like VBScript may lead to compliance issues with industry regulations that require the use of supported software.
   - roles: Compliance Officers, IT Auditors
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/deprecation-what-it-means-in-the-windows-lifecycle/4372457

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Implementing Sysmon for Monitoring
Using Sysmon to monitor VBScript usage can provide detailed logging of script execution, which helps in identifying dependencies and usage patterns within the organization. This proactive monitoring can lead to better security and operational efficiency by allowing IT to address vulnerabilities associated with outdated scripting methods.
   - next-steps: Set up Sysmon across the organization, configure it to log VBScript execution, and analyze the logs to identify usage patterns and dependencies.
   - roles: IT Security Manager, System Administrator, DevOps Engineer
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/vbscript-deprecation-detection-strategies-for-windows/4414325

Reviewing VBScript Dependencies
Conducting a thorough review of existing VBScript dependencies within applications can help identify critical areas that need to be migrated to more modern scripting solutions. This process can also uncover hidden dependencies that may affect application performance and reliability.
   - next-steps: Create a task force to review applications and systems that utilize VBScript, document dependencies, and develop a migration plan to alternative technologies.
   - roles: Application Manager, Business Analyst, System Architect
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/vbscript-deprecation-timelines-and-next-steps/4148301

Scanning for .vbs Files and Custom MSI Packages
Regularly scanning for .vbs files and custom MSI packages containing embedded VBScript will help in identifying legacy scripts that need to be addressed. This can streamline the remediation process and minimize the risk of relying on deprecated technology.
   - next-steps: Implement automated scanning tools to detect .vbs files and custom MSI packages, compile a report of findings, and prioritize remediation efforts based on usage and criticality.
   - roles: IT Operations Manager, Software Engineer, Compliance Officer
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/vbscript-deprecation-detection-strategies-for-windows/4414325

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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