Security Policy Errors

How to Unblock Macros from the Internet in Microsoft Office

Natalie Taylor Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users are unable to run macros in Microsoft Office files downloaded from the internet, despite having Developer mode enabled and VBA macros permitted in the Trust Center.

How to Unblock Macros from the Internet in Microsoft Office

Product: Microsoft Office
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to open and execute a macro-enabled file or add-in that was downloaded from the internet or received as an email attachment.
Observed behavior: Macros remain blocked by default security policies, preventing the script or add-in from executing. The user often sees a red security risk banner indicating that the source of the file is untrusted.

Before you start

Ensure the macro-enabled file is from a completely trusted and verifiable source before unblocking it, as running unverified macros can expose your computer to severe security risks and malware.

Solution 1Recommended

Unblock the Individual File in Windows Properties

Use this method to manually remove the Mark of the Web (MOTW) security tag from a single, trusted file downloaded from the internet.

Microsoft Office uses a security feature called Mark of the Web (MOTW) to identify files downloaded from the internet. By default, it blocks macros in these files regardless of your standard Trust Center settings. You can manually unblock the file through its properties menu if you are absolutely sure it is safe.

Locate the downloaded file

Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder where your macro-enabled file is saved.

Open file properties

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

Unblock the file

On the 'General' tab, look for a 'Security' section at the bottom. Check the box next to 'Unblock', then click 'Apply' and 'OK'.

Unblock the Individual File in Windows Properties

Security Warning: Only check the 'Unblock' box for files you explicitly trust. Unblocking malicious files can compromise your system's security.

Solution 2

Move the File to a Trusted Location

Use this solution if you frequently work with downloaded macro files and want to bypass the block automatically without checking properties each time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Office block macros even if my Trust Center settings allow them?

Microsoft recently updated its default security policy to block VBA macros in files originating from the internet (identified by the Mark of the Web). This default policy overrides local Trust Center macro settings to protect users from increasingly common malicious scripts.

How do I know if my file is blocked due to the internet macro policy?

You will typically see a red or pink security warning banner at the top of the Office application stating 'SECURITY RISK: Microsoft has blocked macros from running because the source of this file is untrusted.'

Can I globally disable the block on internet macros?

While network administrators can use Group Policy to override this behavior, it is highly discouraged due to the severe security risks associated with running unverified internet macros. It is safer to unblock individual files or use designated Trusted Locations.

Microsoft Office Security Issues