Say hello to the Phish Alert Button in Outlook

27 Aug 2025

You can now use the Phish Alert Button (PAB) in the Outlook to report suspicious emails. Look for the envelope icon with the orange fish hook.

To report a suspicious email, simply click the PAB button. You’ll be asked to confirm your choice by selecting either Phishing or Spam / Junk (see descriptions below).

If you choose Phishing or Suspicious: the message is sent to the IT Service Desk. You'll receive an email confirmation (a ticket) so that you know it has been logged. The IT Service Desk may contact you through that ticket if they need more details.
If you choose Spam or Junk: the message is sent directly to Microsoft. You will not receive a confirmation and you won't hear anything further.

In both cases, once you report an email using the PAB, the email will disappear from your inbox, and you'll see an on-screen notification thanking you for reporting it.

This button replaces the old method of reporting both phishing and spam / junk emails.

Where do I find the PAB?

diagram of the Outlook screen to demonstrate where phish alert button is

You can find the Phish Alert Button in the Outlook ribbon at the top of your screen. Look for the envelope icon with the orange hook.

What should I report?

Use the Phish Alert Button (PAB) for emails you suspect could be malicious, such as phishing or spear phishing attempts.

Phishing (including spear phishing): Phishing emails are malicious messages designed to look like they come from a trusted source. They often try to trick you into clicking a link, opening an attachment, or sharing information. Spear phishing is a more targeted version of phishing, where attackers research a person or organisation to make their message appear highly convincing. These types of emails are extremely dangerous and can cause serious harm.
Spam/Junk email: These are unsolicited or irrelevant messages, such as marketing offers or newsletters you never subscribed to. While annoying, these are generally not malicious.

Quick, simple, and helps keep everyone safe.