[m365weekly] #162

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Issue #162

☁️What’s on my mind

Microsoft has raised quite some eyebrows with the announcement of the Recall feature that will come with Copilot+ PCs.

I completely understand that if AI is to be the best possible assistant to us, it needs to have as much data as possible at its disposal.

But too much is too much. I have to say that I don’t feel very comfortable with the thought of Recall recording practically everything that happens on my computer, including the payment details that I enter.

Okay, on the other hand, I am reassured, because I feel that the EU, which I often criticize for its bureaucracy, will stop Recall, at least in the EU market.

But let us wait and see how it all plays out.

Have a nice weekend,
Matic Z.


[FEATURED STORY] Recall? What were they thinking?

Microsoft’s new Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs feature Recall, a comprehensive record of user activity on the device. However, security concerns have been raised as it stores sensitive information like usernames, passwords, and personal data. Although Microsoft claims that the data is processed locally and encrypted, security researcher Kevin Beaumont has found that the data can be easily accessed by hackers or malware, posing a significant risk to user privacy and security.

Privacy and control over your Recall experience. Something official from Microsoft.

Why I Trust Microsofts Recall Over Any SaaS Startup. A PRO view from the other side. He has a point, but …


Are you looking for IT talent?

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☁️Productivity & Modern Workplace

Excel Regular Expression Functions: A Game-Changer for Data Manipulation. Excel 365 now includes Regular Expressions (RegEx) functions, enhancing data manipulation and analysis capabilities in spreadsheets. Currently, in preview versions, these powerful tools make complex tasks more manageable for Excel 365 users.

How to use the new Microsoft Lists features. The latest update brings enhancements to Lists, boosting overall performance and introducing new features. Now, you can easily add ratings to any list, seamlessly drag or paste images directly into a list, and collaborate in real-time with visibility on who is working alongside you.

View HTML source code of an email in New Outlook. In the New Outlook, the “View Source” command for viewing the HTML source of an email is currently unavailable. As a workaround, you can save the email as an EML file and open it with Notepad to see the HTML tags. Step-by-step instructions in the article.

An even faster Microsoft Edge. Microsoft Edge is stepping up its game with significant performance improvements! With the latest update, you can expect faster browsing, reduced memory usage, and increased responsiveness.


☁️Copilot & AI

How to Reference Documents with Copilot Links. It’s as easy as copy+paste.

What’s New in Copilot | May 2024. Microsoft 365’s latest updates include managing risk with Purview AI Hub, automating tasks using Copilot extensions, and improving teamwork with Copilot in Planner. Ohh, and explore new prompt collections.

Build your own Copilot with Azure AI Studio. Azure AI Studio simplifies AI integration for developers and enterprises with its user-friendly platform and comprehensive tools. This versatile, efficient, and scalable solution drives innovation and AI adoption across various sectors.


☁️Sysadmin Stuff

Adding Self-Service to BitLocker Recovery Key Access. BitLocker offers strong protection against offline attacks with a TPM chip. Microsoft now allows users to access their recovery keys through Intune self-service, streamlining the recovery process and benefiting larger organizations.

Top 5 PowerShell Modules You Need to Know About. Boost your PowerShell productivity with top modules that customize the terminal, simplify data import/export, and keep everything up-to-date. Experience a more enjoyable and efficient PowerShell environment with these handy tools.

Organizational Messages Now Available On Microsoft 365 Admin Center. Microsoft Intune users can now enjoy Organizational Messages on the Microsoft 365 Admin Center, enabling better communication with customized messages and targeted delivery. Remember, existing Intune messages will be available in this new experience, but some Intune features will no longer apply.


☁️Security & Data Governance

Privileged Access Management in Microsoft 365. Microsoft 365’s Privileged Access Management (PAM) enhances security by limiting administrative access and implementing just-in-time rules. By configuring PAM for Exchange Online, admins can reduce breaches and manage access requests effectively.

How to Prevent QR Code Phishing in Microsoft 365. QR code phishing is a growing threat that requires a multi-layered security approach. Implement user training, and stronger authentication, and use tools like Microsoft 365 Defender for Office 365 to protect against malicious QR codes in emails and on mobile devices.

Password Best Practices and Tips for MSPs. Ensure your clients prioritize strong password security to protect against cyberattacks. Educate them on creating robust passwords, using password managers, and implementing multi-factor authentication. Remember to secure social media accounts and continuously emphasize password security’s importance.


☁️Noteworthy (long)reads

What You Need to Know – Microsoft 365 Developer Program Changes in 2024. Microsoft now restricts access to free Microsoft 365 developer tenants due to security concerns. Currently, only those with specific subscriptions or licenses can obtain a tenant. A broader solution is expected by September 2024.

How Changes to Cloud Egress Fees May or May Not Help You Save Money. The discontinuation of egress fees by major cloud providers may not lead to significant savings. Instead, organizations should focus on optimizing cloud data costs through analytics-based data management and informed storage decisions.


DATES TO KEEP IN MIND

By September 30, 2024 – Business Connectivity Services (BCS) retirement in Microsoft 365. (Timeline and alternative solution)

December 16, 2024Retiring of Delve application.

End of 2024 – Mail and Calendar Apps in Windows will be retired. The new Outlook will be installed on new Windows 11 devices.

October 2026Retirement of Microsoft Publisher app which has been a part of Office Suite for years.


☁️Classifieds

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☁️On a Less Serious Note


☁️ Last but not least …

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