How to Fix Microsoft Defender Phishing Simulations Assigning Training Without Interaction
Question details
Users are automatically assigned remedial training during Microsoft Defender phishing simulations despite not interacting with or clicking on the simulated messages.
- Product
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Administrators are running a simulated phishing attack to test user security awareness and track potential vulnerabilities.
- Observed behavior
- The system incorrectly flags non-interacting users as having fallen for the phishing simulation and automatically assigns them mandatory security training.
Gather the specifics of the affected phishing simulation, including the simulation name, the active policies, and a list of the users who were incorrectly assigned training.
Report the Issue on Microsoft Learn Support
Because this involves backend tracking mechanics of Microsoft 365 Defender, the most effective solution is to escalate the issue to specialized Microsoft support engineers via Microsoft Learn.
This behavior typically indicates a misconfiguration in Defender for Office 365 policies or a backend tracking error where automated security scanners (like secure email gateways) "click" the phishing link instead of the actual user, triggering the training.
Log into your Microsoft 365 Defender portal and collect the exact name of the simulation, the payload used, and the list of affected users.
Go to the Microsoft Learn Q&A platform and search for the Defender for Cloud or Microsoft Defender support tags.
Create a new thread detailing the issue. State clearly that users did not click the link but training was still assigned, and provide your simulation details so specialists can investigate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do automated systems trigger phishing simulation links?
Many organizations use enterprise antivirus software or secure email gateways that pre-scan incoming emails. These tools automatically "click" links to check for malicious content, which the phishing simulation platform incorrectly records as a user click.
Can I remove the training assigned to users by mistake?
Yes, administrators can manually remove incorrectly assigned training modules within the Microsoft Defender portal by navigating to the simulation results and adjusting the training assignment status for specific users.
How can I prevent security scanners from breaking phishing simulations?
You need to whitelist the phishing simulation domains and IP addresses in your third-party security software and email gateways. This allows the simulation emails to bypass automated link detonation and reach the user intact.
