Microsoft Word bug sometimes deletes file when user clicks ‘save’

In some cases, the current version of Microsoft Word deletes files when users try to save them. The bug affects documents that contain capitalized file extensions, such as ‘.DOCX’ instead of ‘.docx.,’ or the symbol #.

Some Word users have made an unfortunate discovery just recently – locally saved files have simply disappeared when they hit save. Microsoft explained that the bug affects Word files with capitalized file extensions or # in the title.

“Users may encounter an issue in version 2409 where their file is deleted after save if the title contains a capitalized file extension (.DOCX, .RTF) or #,” the support page reads.

For now, while the Word team is investigating the issue, only a workaround exists.

Microsoft suggests finding and restoring deleted files from the recycle bin. Also, manually saving the document before closing should do the trick.

“Our current tests show the issue occurs after saving when prompted on clicking X to close Word. It does not currently reproduce when manually saving before close,” Microsoft said.

Another suggestion is enabling the option “Don’t show the Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts.” It can be accessed by going to File > Options > Save > Don’t show the Backstage when opening or saving files with keyboard shortcuts.

It’s currently unclear when a fix for this bug will be available.