Security Policy Errors

How to Fix Excel Potential Security Issue Warning for Local Files

Algirdas Jasaitis Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users encounter a potential security issue warning when attempting to open spreadsheets stored on their local drives.

How to Fix Excel Potential Security Issue Warning for Local Files

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Opening local files in Excel after a Microsoft 365 renewal or system configuration change.
Observed behavior: Excel displays a potential security issue warning that interrupts the workflow and prevents the file from opening smoothly.

Before you start

Verify that the files you are attempting to open originate from a trusted and safe source before modifying any application security settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Add Your Local Folder to Excel's Trusted Locations

Configure the Excel Trust Center to recognize the specific local folder containing your spreadsheets as a safe location.

Adding a controlled folder to your Trusted Locations allows Excel to open files from that directory without triggering security warnings. Avoid adding your entire hard drive or Downloads folder to maintain system security.

Access Excel Options

Launch Microsoft Excel, click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, and select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.

Navigate to Trust Center Settings

In the Excel Options dialog box, click on 'Trust Center' in the left-hand pane, then click the 'Trust Center Settings' button.

Add a New Trusted Location

Select 'Trusted Locations' from the left menu. Click 'Add new location', browse to the local folder where your files are stored, check the box for subfolders if necessary, and click 'OK'.

Add Your Local Folder to Excel's Trusted Locations

Security Maintained: This method safely bypasses the warning for your safe files without globally lowering your macro or add-in security settings.

Solution 2

Disable Suspicious Add-ins and Test in Safe Mode

Run Excel in Safe Mode to identify if a recently installed add-in is triggering the security warning on your local files.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Open Spreadsheets Seamlessly with WPS Office

If Microsoft Excel continues to display complex security warnings or licensing errors for your local files, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a secure, lightweight, and highly compatible environment for managing your spreadsheets without frustrating configuration hurdles.

1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office from the official website and follow the simple installation prompts.
2. Open the Spreadsheet Application: Launch WPS Spreadsheets from your desktop or start menu.
3. Access Your Files Safely: Click 'Open' and select your local Excel files to view and edit them instantly without security interruptions.

Free and lightweight spreadsheet editor with a fast installation processExcellent format compatibility with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx, .xls, .csv)No complex Trust Center configuration required for standard local filesFamiliar user interface ensuring immediate productivity and seamless migration

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the potential security issue warning suddenly appear in Excel?

This warning often appears after a Microsoft 365 subscription renewal, an Office update, or when a new third-party add-in alters your application's configuration.

Should I enable all macros to stop the security warnings?

No, it is highly recommended to avoid enabling all macros or broadly lowering your security settings. Instead, add specific, controlled folders to your Trusted Locations.

What if the security warning still appears after adding a Trusted Location?

If the warning persists, it may be related to account activation or licensing synchronization issues. You may need to verify your Microsoft 365 subscription status or contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.

Microsoft Office Security Issues