What determines the reasoning when submitting a suspected email attachment to Microsoft for analysis?

The reasoning for submitting a suspected email attachment to Microsoft for analysis primarily hinges on whether the attachment bypassed scanning erroneously or should have been blocked. This means that when an attachment raises suspicion—either because it contains potentially harmful content or exhibits behavior typical of malicious files—it's crucial to determine if it should have been detected and blocked by Microsoft’s security systems initially.

When attachments are submitted for analysis, assessing their bypass status helps improve security features by identifying weaknesses in existing filters and scanning processes. This feedback loop allows Microsoft to enhance its threat intelligence and adjust its detection mechanisms accordingly, reducing the risk of future breaches.

While the content of the attachment, the sender's trustworthiness, and the file size may play roles in evaluating its potential threat, the primary focus when deciding to submit an attachment for analysis is whether it should have been flagged and prevented from reaching the user in the first place. This emphasis on submission criteria reflects a proactive approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that systems are continuously learning and adapting to new threats.