Microsoft 365 may delete Word files due to a file extension glitch

Version 2409 of Microsoft 365 has been identified with a bug that may result in Word files being erased instead of saved, as cautioned by Microsoft. This issue is particularly prominent in files with the # symbol or file extensions in uppercase letters, like .DOCX or .RTF.

As a precaution until a permanent resolution is implemented, users are advised to verify if any missing files that were presumed to be saved have possibly ended up in the Recycle Bin.

An alternative workaround suggested by Bleeping Computer is to revert Microsoft 365 to an earlier version.

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AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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