SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sec-external-label
What does an External label on an Outlook email tell you?
It came from outside your organization.
- It came from outside your organization ✔
- It is encrypted
- It is from your boss
Why: Admins turn on external tags so people can spot mail from outside. If a message claims to be your boss or a coworker but carries the tag, stop and check with that person another way.
Huh, didn't know that: Microsoft says External labels help admins track suspicious and potentially harmful email.
What do you call a cybercriminal who got away? They ransomware.
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References
Answer: It came from outside your organization. Admins turn on external tags so people can spot mail from outside. If a message claims to be your boss or a coworker but carries the tag, stop and check with that person another way.
- Microsoft Support: What is the External label on Outlook mobile email? support.microsoft.com/en-us/article/249650da-6ae8-4f33-8e81-df50ecebdc84
External labels are tags that are attached to external emails
Checked 2026-10-10.
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