Security, Privacy and Spam Management

How Does Office365 handle spam?
There are a number of methodologies to combat spam on the Office365 platform. Microsoft utilizes SmartScreen Technology to detect spam based on you reporting spam in your inbox. This technology matches the sender’s e-mail address against their IP address to protect against spoofing. About 95% of all spam and 99% of image-based spam are blocked. While spam traffic has increased 40% across the Internet, Microsoft e-mail spam is down 80% over the past year thanks to the work of Microsoft’s spam-fighting team and technologies.

If using the web interface, all e-mail undergoes a virus check/scan.  However, since the anti-virus tools are server-side, this does not apply if you use POP.

Do I have the ability to control anti-spam options, for example, training the system what is spam?
Yes, you have the opportunity to identify certain e-mails as safe versus unsafe, and Microsoft also “learns” based on users actions to mark spam. Furthermore, you can set individual junk mail folder rules, block lists, and safe lists.

Can I perform/create a message filter?
Yes, absolutely. This capability is available under the option setting process for each individual e-mail user in the web interface.

How data is physically stored?
Data is stored on Microsoft servers where all the common Microsoft practices for security are followed. Microsoft does thorough security testing; Microsoft has third parties do penetration testing; Microsoft used best practices to maximize security of the servers and prevention of unauthorized network access; Microsoft only allows select personnel with approved clearance to have access to the Office365 site.

Does CUNY have access to my account, even thought it is provided by Microsoft?
By opening and using your account, you agree and consent that CUNY may access your account for administrative and other purposes such as password resets and compliance with University policies governing this service. This may require Microsoft to access and disclose to CUNY any information stored within the account.

Does Microsoft share or sell my contact information with third parties?
No, Microsoft does not sell or share any contact information unless you opt in. This is covered in Microsoft’s comprehensive privacy and disclosure policies which are available not only to Microsoft Office365 participants but to all users of Microsoft’s online services. See http://www.microsoft.com/privacy