How to disable macro execution in Microsoft Office documents downloaded from the internet

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to disable macro execution in Microsoft Office documents downloaded from the internet. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Macros are small programs embedded in Microsoft Office documents that can automate repetitive tasks. However, they are also a common delivery method for malware and ransomware. Disabling macro execution for files downloaded from the internet helps protect your organisation from malicious code running automatically when you open a document.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Open any Microsoft Office application (such as Word, Excel, or PowerPoint).
2. Select File from the top menu.
3. Click Options at the bottom of the left-hand pane.
4. Choose Trust Center, then click Trust Center Settings...
5. Select Macro Settings from the list on the left.
6. Enable the option Disable all macros without notification.
7. Click OK to save your changes.

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Open Trust Center Settings

1. Launch Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint on your Windows computer.
2. Click the File tab in the top-left corner of the window.
3. Scroll down the left-hand menu and select Options.
4. In the Word Options (or Excel/PowerPoint Options) window, click Trust Center.
5. Click the Trust Center Settings... button on the right side.

Step 2: Configure Macro Settings

1. In the Trust Center window, select Macro Settings from the left-hand list.
2. Select the radio button for Disable all macros without notification. This prevents macros from running in documents downloaded from the internet without prompting you.
3. If you want to be warned before macros run instead of blocking them entirely, choose Disable all macros with notification.
4. Click OK to apply the setting, then click OK again to close the Options window.

Step 3: Verify Protected View is Enabled

1. Return to the Trust Center in Options.
2. Select Protected View from the left-hand list.
3. Ensure the checkbox Enable Protected View for files originating from the internet is ticked.
4. Click OK to save.

Troubleshooting

Macro Settings are Greyed Out

If the macro settings options cannot be changed, your organisation may be managing Office settings through Group Policy. Contact your IT administrator or Open a Ticket for assistance.

You Need to Run a Trusted Macro

If you have a document from a known, trusted source that requires macros, you can open the file and enable content for that specific session via the yellow security bar at the top of the document. Only do this if you are certain the file is safe.

Still Having Issues?