VBA & Macro Problems

How to Fix Macros Disabled in Word Because a File Is Untrusted

WPS Content Manager Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users are unable to run macros in Word documents downloaded from the internet or saved outside trusted locations due to automatic security blocks.

How to Fix Macros Disabled in Word Because a File Is Untrusted

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Trying to run macros in a Word document downloaded from the web or received from an external source.
Observed behavior: Word completely blocks macros in the file, displaying an 'untrusted file' warning, even if global macro settings are configured to allow all macros.

Before you start

Ensure you fully trust the source of the Word document before enabling its macros, as malicious scripts can compromise your computer's security.

Solution 1Recommended

Unblock the File via Windows Properties

This is the quickest method for individual files downloaded from the internet that carry the 'Mark of the Web'.

Open File Location

Navigate to the folder on your computer where the downloaded Word document is currently saved.

Access Properties

Right-click the Word file and select 'Properties' from the context menu.

Unblock File

Under the 'General' tab, look for a 'Security' section at the bottom. Check the box next to 'Unblock'.

Apply and Reopen

Click 'Apply' and then 'OK'. Open the file in Word to see if the macros are now permitted to run.

Solution 2

Add a Trusted Location in Word Trust Center

Best for managing multiple trusted macro-enabled files without having to unblock them individually.

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WPS Office provides robust support for VBA macros. You can securely open macro-enabled documents and manage your developer settings without navigating complex trust center blocks.

1. Open the Document in WPS: Launch WPS Office and open your macro-enabled document.
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3. Enable Macros: Click on 'Macro Security' and adjust the settings to allow the macros you trust to run safely.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Word say my file is untrusted even though I enabled all macros?

Windows adds a 'Mark of the Web' tag to files downloaded from the internet. Word's Trust Center recognizes this flag and automatically blocks macros to protect your system from malware, overriding your global macro settings.

What should I do if the 'Unblock' option is missing in file properties?

If the 'Unblock' checkbox is missing, the file might not have the 'Mark of the Web' tag. Try moving the file into a specific folder that you have added to Word's Trusted Locations via the Trust Center Settings.

Is it safe to add my entire C: drive to Trusted Locations?

No, it is highly insecure to add an entire drive, especially the C: drive or your Downloads folder, to Trusted Locations. Doing so bypasses Word's security checks for all files in those locations, leaving your PC vulnerable to malicious macros.

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