The Register: Microsoft stays mum about M365 Copilot on-demand security bypass

Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2025/08/20/microsoft_mum_about_m365_copilot/
Source: The Register
Title: Microsoft stays mum about M365 Copilot on-demand security bypass

Feedly Summary: Redmond doesn’t bother informing customers about some security fixes
Microsoft has chosen not to tell customers about a recently patched vulnerability in M365 Copilot.…

AI Summary and Description: Yes

Summary: The text highlights a concerning practice by Microsoft, wherein they’ve opted not to inform customers about a security vulnerability that has been patched in M365 Copilot. This raises significant implications for transparency in security communications and the importance of keeping customers informed about vulnerabilities that could impact their operations.

Detailed Description: The decision by Microsoft to not inform customers about a patched vulnerability in M365 Copilot underlines several key issues in the fields of security and compliance:

– **Transparency and Trust**: Customers expect transparency from service providers regarding security vulnerabilities. Failure to communicate could undermine trust and lead to reputational damage.

– **Responsibility and Governance**: Companies have a responsibility to notify customers of vulnerabilities, especially those that can lead to data breaches or security incidents. This is particularly vital for compliance with various regulations that require disclosure of security incidents.

– **Impact on Security Practices**: By withholding information, Microsoft may affect the security posture of their customers. Organizations relying on M365 Copilot will not be able to fully evaluate risks without knowledge of vulnerabilities.

– **Best Practices for Security Communication**:
– Implement a structured approach for disclosing vulnerabilities to users.
– Regularly update customers about patches and security fixes.
– Encourage a proactive dialogue regarding security concerns.

The implications of this decision could extend beyond the immediate customer base, impacting overall security practices in the industry and potentially leading to broader discussions related to compliance and governance frameworks. Such practices might necessitate reevaluation of contractual agreements regarding security notifications from service providers.