Controlled folder access is a new feature that monitors the changes that apps make to your files. If an app tries to modify the files inside a protected folder, and the app is blacklisted, you’ll get notified about the suspicious activity. In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to enable and configure Controlled folder access using Windows Defender Antivirus to protect your Windows 10 device and data against ransomware.
How to enable ransomware protection on Windows 10 How to allow apps ransomware protection on Windows 10 How to protect other folders against ransomware on Windows 10
How to enable ransomware protection on Windows 10
In order to enable Controlled folder access use the following steps: Once you completed the steps, Windows Defender Antivirus will monitor your protected folders as applications try to modify your files. If a suspicious activity occurs, you’ll get a notification about the threat. Windows Defender Antivirus settings Ransomware protection settings
How to allow apps ransomware protection on Windows 10
This new security feature has a basic understanding of which apps are allowed to make changes to your files, but sometimes an app that you trust may get blocked by the Controlled folder access feature. If this is the case, you may need to manually allow a particular app using these steps.
How to protect other folders against ransomware on Windows 10
By default, Controlled folder access protects the Documents, Pictures, Movies, and Desktop folders. While you can’t remove these folders from the list, it’s possible to include additional locations to the list to protect your data from ransomware and other malware. Windows Defender Antivirus settings Allow app via Controlled folder access If you can’t find the new malware protection feature on Windows Defender Security Center, it’s probably because you’re not running the Windows 10 April 2018 Update or Fall Creators Update. Ransomware protection settings Protected folders settings This guide has been updated to reflect the new location to find the settings in the April 2018 Update. If you’re running the Fall Creators Update, the path to find the setting is Windows Defender Security Center > Virus & threat protection > Virus & threat protection settings. Originally published on June 2017, updated on May 2018. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
