What is the primary function of Windows SmartScreen?

Windows SmartScreen plays a crucial role in protecting users from phishing attacks and other malicious content. It works by checking websites and applications against a dynamic list of known unsafe content. When a user attempts to navigate to a potentially harmful website or to run an application that SmartScreen flags as risky, it displays warnings and provides the option to proceed or not, allowing users to make informed decisions about their safety.

This functionality is essential in today’s environment, where phishing attacks are prevalent, and users can be easily misled into providing sensitive information or downloading malicious software. By analyzing the reputation of websites and applications based on crowd-sourced data and other metrics, Windows SmartScreen helps enhance overall online safety, thereby reducing the likelihood of falling victim to these types of threats.