Windows 10 2004


The Windows 10 May 2020 Update is nearing its global availability and if the dates are to be taken into consideration, Windows 10 users should be able to see the update on their machines by the end of this month (May).



As per the support page published by Microsoft, spotted by ZDNet, users running the Windows 10 May 2020 Update will get a new security feature that will help protect their PCs from potentially unwanted applications (PUAs).

Potentially unwanted applications (PUA) are a category of software that can cause your machine to run slowly, display unexpected ads, or at worst, install other software which may be more harmful or annoying.

Microsoft



First introduced in Windows 10 May 2020 Update, the reputation-based protection is turned off by default.


To manually turn on potentially unwanted app blocking go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > App & browser control > Reputation-based protection settings.

Reputation-based protection settings in Windows 10 May 2020 Update



Microsoft has recommended to turn on both options for enhanced security against malicious apps and downloads.


What each option is all about:

  • Block downloads looks for PUA as it’s being downloaded, but note that it only works with the new Microsoft Edge browser.
  • Block apps will detect PUA that you’ve already downloaded or installed, so if you’re using a different browser Windows Security can still detect PUA after you’ve downloaded it.



Source: Microsoft