A Microsoft Word bug deletes your files instead of saving them⚠️
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In a help message published on October 4 and updated on October 8, Microsoft warned Word users about a bug that could delete their documents when saving. While awaiting a fix, the company has provided some workarounds to avoid the issue.
Why are files getting deleted on their own ❓
Specifically, the bug occurs when users save their files with an extension in uppercase letters, such as « .DOCX or .RTF, » or when the hashtag symbol « # » is present in the file name. In these specific cases, the file is immediately deleted upon saving. However, the file is not lost since it can be recovered from the Windows recycle bin. Only files saved locally on the computer are affected, while those saved online are exempt from the bug.
The issue could affect a large number of users, as it involves Word version 2409, which was rolled out starting September 23 to business customers with default update settings. Unfortunately, Microsoft has not yet clarified whether individuals who received this update might also be affected.
How to check if you’re affected🔍
Since the issue only affects a specific group of users, it is possible to check if you’re impacted. Word users can verify the version of the software they are running by:
- Opening a document in Word
- Clicking on “File,” then “Account”
- Checking the version number to the right of the “About Word” section
Temporary solutions 🛠️
This bug is certainly an inconvenience! While waiting for an official update, Microsoft has provided a few ways to work around the bug. You can:
- Manually save your file from within Word, as the bug only affects files saved after closing the software.
- Enable the option « Don’t show the Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts » in the File menu, then Options, and finally Save.
And you, have you been affected by this bug? Let us know in the comments 😊
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