Yes, Windows Defender is capable of detecting malicious emails or suspicious links. Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus software for Windows 10 PCs, designed to protect users from malware and viruses. It provides real-time protection against malware and other malicious threats, including phishing attacks, including malicious emails or suspicious links sent via email.
Windows Defender uses a combination of tools to detect malicious emails or links that could lead to an infection or compromise of your computer system. First, it includes heuristics: an AI-based detection system that is able to detect and block malicious code that has never been seen before. This form of detection uses algorithms to track and identify patterns of malicious activity.
Windows Defender also includes signature-based scanning, in which it searches for known patterns associated with malicious software. If a signature matches, Windows Defender will flag the file, email, or link as malicious.
Email filtering is another tool used by Windows Defender to detect malicious emails. By examining the content of incoming emails and checking for certain signatures, Windows Defender can determine if a message is likely to contain malicious code. If so, it can mark the message as suspicious or block it from entering your inbox.
Finally, Windows Defender includes a tool that guards against malicious URLs: these are links in emails or websites that take users to malicious sites or downloads. The tool checks each link against Microsoft’s database of malicious URLs, and blocks any found to be associated with malicious activity.
Microsoft actively updates Windows Defender to better protect users from emerging threats. As new forms of malicious threats evolve, Windows Defender is updated to ensure that users are adequately protected.
Overall, Windows Defender does offer protection against malicious emails or suspicious links. However, it is still important to be aware of potential phishing scams, and always exercise caution when clicking on links, especially from unknown sources.