Microsoft Word error can accidentally delete files; knowing how to avoid

A new Microsoft Word bug could accidentally delete your files, users report. THE Adding a character to the file name may cause the document to be lost — sometimes even restoring from the recycle bin is blocked.

According to user posts on the Microsoft Community, the issue occurs in two scenarios: when adding the “#” (hash) character to the file name, or when the file extension is written in uppercase letters, such as “.DOCX” or “.RTF”. Instead of “.docx” and “.rtf”.

fortunately, This does not happen in all versions of the text editor. In another post, Microsoft acknowledged that the problem was in version 2409 of Word.

How not to lose files in Word

aware of the mistake Microsoft is investigating the causes and preparing a fix. Until then, the company has suggested some alternatives to prevent your file from being lost or to restore it if it was accidentally deleted.

• Before closing the document, save it manually and do not enter the specified characters;
• Enable “Show Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts”;
• Find the deleted file from recycle bin and restore it.

In some cases, Accidentally deleted file does not appear in Windows Recycle Bin. In one of the reports, the user notes that it takes some time for the document to become restorable.

According to website Digital Trends, The issue affects a small number of users. Either way, it’s important to follow Microsoft’s recommendations to avoid surprises.