check before: 2026-04-01
Product:
Windows, Windows Server
Platform:
Developer, Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Starting with the April 2026 Windows security update, Remote Desktop adds new safeguards to help reduce phishing attacks that misuse Remote Desktop (.rdp) files. These attacks attempt to trick devices into connecting to attacker‑controlled systems and sharing local resources without clear visibility. To address this, a new security dialog appears before any connection is made, showing the remote computer address, publisher information (when available), and any requested access to local resources. All requested settings are disabled by default and must be explicitly enabled. A one‑time security warning also appears the first time an RDP file is opened.
When will this happen:
This change takes effect with the April 2026 Windows security update.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2026-04-15
updated:
2026-04-15
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**
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Direct effects for Operations**
Increased User Interaction
Users will need to interact with a new security dialog before establishing RDP connections, which may disrupt workflows and lead to confusion.
- roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/imsrdpextendedsettings-property, https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/remote-desktop-activex-control
Automation Breakage
Automated scripts or workflows that rely on RDP files may fail due to the new security dialog, requiring updates to those processes.
- roles: System Administrators, Developers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/imsrdpextendedsettings-property, https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/remote-desktop-activex-control
User Confusion
The one-time security warning may confuse users who are not familiar with the new security measures, leading to potential support tickets.
- roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/remote-desktop-activex-control
Compatibility Issues
Organizations using custom Remote Desktop clients may face compatibility issues that require careful evaluation and potential adjustments.
- roles: Developers, IT Administrators
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/imsrdpextendedsettings-property
" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/imsrdpextendedsettings-property
Training and Communication Needs
IT admins will need to communicate and train users on the new security features to mitigate confusion and ensure compliance.
- roles: IT Support Staff, End Users
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/win32/termserv/remote-desktop-activex-control
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
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Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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