Information
This policy setting configures scanning for all downloaded files and attachments.
The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
When running an antivirus solution such as Microsoft Defender Antivirus, it is important to ensure that it is configured to heuristically monitor in real-time for suspicious and known malicious activity.
Impact:
None - this is the default behavior.
Solution
To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to Enabled:
Computer Configuration\Policies\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Microsoft Defender Antivirus\Real-Time Protection\Scan all downloaded files and attachments
Note: This Group Policy path may not exist by default. It is provided by the Group Policy template WindowsDefender.admx/adml that is included with the Microsoft Windows 8.1 & Server 2012 R2 Administrative Templates (or newer).
Default Value:
Enabled. (All downloaded files and attachments will be scanned.)