File Cannot Open

How to Fix Word 2019 Not Opening DOCX Files and Showing a Fake File Manager

Guest Writer Sep 25, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to open downloaded DOCX files directly; instead of launching Microsoft Word, an unfamiliar application opens and demands payment.

Fix Word 2019 Not Opening DOCX Files (Fake File Manager Issue)

Product: Microsoft Word 2019
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Opening downloaded DOCX files from local storage.
Observed behavior: A fake file manager or intrusive application launches and asks for payment to open the files. DOC and PDF files open normally, and DOCX files open correctly if launched from within the Word application.

Before you start

Do not enter any payment details or personal information into the unfamiliar application, as this indicates a malware infection or unwanted adware hijacking your file associations.

Solution 1Recommended

Uninstall Unfamiliar Applications and Scan for Malware

Use this solution to remove the root cause of the issue, which is malicious software hijacking your DOCX file extensions.

The fake file manager and payment prompts are not affiliated with Microsoft. These symptoms occur when adware or unwanted software changes your default application settings. Removing the software and scanning your system is the most effective fix.

Open Windows Installed Apps

Press the Windows key, type 'Installed apps' (or 'Apps & features' on older Windows versions), and press Enter to open the settings menu.

Remove Suspicious Programs

Scroll through the list of installed applications. Look for any unfamiliar programs installed around the time the issue started. Click on the suspicious app and select 'Uninstall'.

Run a Deep Malware Scan

Open a reputable malware scanner such as Malwarebytes, ESET, F-Secure, or AVG. Run a full system scan to detect and remove any hidden malicious files or registry entries.

Uninstall Unfamiliar Applications and Scan for Malware

System Reboot: After uninstalling suspicious apps and running the scan, restart your computer to ensure all malicious background processes are fully terminated.

Solution 2

Bypass the Hijack Using 'Open With'

Use this workaround to quickly access your DOCX files while you are in the process of resolving the malware issue.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Open DOCX Files Safely with WPS Office

If your Microsoft Office installation is corrupted or file associations keep getting hijacked, try WPS Office. It is a highly compatible, completely free, and lightweight suite that opens DOCX, DOC, and PDF files seamlessly, ensuring a familiar user interface and easy migration without unexpected payment prompts.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office suite for Windows.
2. Install and Set as Default: Run the installer. During or after installation, you can set WPS Office as your default application for opening DOCX files securely.
3. Open Documents Seamlessly: Double-click any DOCX file to instantly open and edit it in a safe, ad-free word processing environment.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including DOCX, XLSX, and PPTXLightweight installation that runs smoothly on older devicesCompletely free from hidden paywalls and intrusive fake file managersFamiliar and intuitive user interface for seamless migration

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does a fake file manager appear only for DOCX files?

Malware or unwanted adware often targets specific, highly used file extensions like DOCX. The malicious software modifies your Windows registry to hijack the default file association, redirecting your clicks to their fraudulent application instead of Microsoft Word.

Will uninstalling the fake application delete my downloaded DOCX files?

No, uninstalling the malicious application from your Windows settings only removes the software itself. Your personal DOCX documents are stored separately on your hard drive and will remain completely safe.

How do I permanently set Microsoft Word as the default app for DOCX files?

Right-click any DOCX file in File Explorer, select 'Open with', and then choose 'Choose another app'. Select Microsoft Word from the list, check the box labeled 'Always use this app to open .docx files', and click OK.

Document & File Issues