File Sharing Problems

How to Remove Uninvited Anonymous Users from Shared OneDrive Excel Files

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user wants to understand why unknown names appear in a shared OneDrive Excel workbook and how to prevent unauthorized access.

Product: Microsoft Excel / OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Collaborating on an Excel file shared via an open sharing link.
Observed behavior: Unrecognized names such as Raspberry, Yucca, or Blueberry appear in the active user list of the shared workbook.

Before you start

Ensure you are the file owner or have administrative permissions for the shared Excel workbook so you can modify its sharing settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Change Sharing Permissions to Specific People

Stop anonymous users by restricting file access to authenticated accounts only.

When you create an 'Anyone with the link' URL, the file can be forwarded to and opened by anyone without signing in. By changing the settings to 'Specific people', you ensure only those you explicitly invite can view or edit the workbook.

Open sharing settings

Locate your Excel file in OneDrive, right-click it, and select the 'Share' option.

Modify link permissions

Click on the current sharing setting block (which likely says 'Anyone with the link') to open the link settings menu.

Select specific people

Choose the 'Specific people' option and click 'Apply'. Then, enter the exact email addresses of the users you want to invite and send the invitation.

Enhanced Security: This method forces every user to verify their identity, completely eliminating random anonymous names like Raspberry or Yucca.

Solution 2

Delete Existing Anonymous Sharing Links

Immediately revoke access for any uninvited users currently viewing the file.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Secure Cloud Collaboration

If you're frustrated by unexpected anonymous users in your documents, WPS Office provides a robust, easy-to-manage alternative for creating and securely sharing spreadsheets.

1. Install WPS Office: Download and install the free WPS Office suite on your preferred device.
2. Open your spreadsheet: Open your .xlsx file in WPS Spreadsheet and click the 'Share' button in the top right corner.
3. Set secure permissions: Choose to share with 'Specific People' or add a secure password to your sharing link to prevent any uninvited access.

Seamlessly edit Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) files with complete format compatibility.Secure cloud sharing with precise control over access permissions, passwords, and link validity periods.Free, lightweight, and fast to launch on Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices.Familiar spreadsheet interface that requires zero learning curve.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive assign names like Raspberry or Yucca to users?

When someone opens an 'Anyone' sharing link without logging into a Microsoft account, OneDrive assigns them a random guest name (often a plant or animal) so you can differentiate multiple anonymous viewers in the document.

Can these anonymous users edit my Excel file?

Yes, if the open sharing link was originally generated with the 'Allow editing' box checked, anyone who possesses the link can modify your data. You must revoke the link to stop them.

How do I instantly kick out an anonymous user?

To remove an active anonymous user, navigate to 'Manage Access' for your file and delete the 'Anyone with the link' URL. Their session will be forcibly closed shortly after the link is removed.

Is there a way to safely share files without requiring user accounts?

If you must use an 'Anyone' link without requiring logins, it is highly recommended to set the permission to 'View only' and apply a link expiration date to minimize long-term security risks.

Document & File Issues