- Microsoft Excel will now deactivate the blocked file types from default workbook links
- The files will not manage to update or display an error #blocked
- Other security updates soon arrive in Excel, so be sure to update
The external workbook links that point to the types of files blocked by the Excel confidence center will be deactivated by default from October 2025, because Microsoft is tightening on the reduction in potential security risks associated with indirect access to the types of files not supported or at high risk in its calculation software.
When the policy comes into play, the binders with these types of links will not manage to update or display a #blocked error.
Users confirmed by Microsft would see a business bar banner in the Build 2509, but new or refreshed links to blocked file types will be prevented from building 2510 if the policy remains not configured by users or administrators.
Excel to deactivate external workbook links to blocked file types
Once the modification takes effect, any type of file listed in the file block settings of the confidence center will be blocked when it is referenced via external links. “Error inspection will confirm that it is due to a limited file type,” added Microsoft in an assistance page.
Microsoft does not recommend reactivating refreshing external links to blocked file types: “Deactivation of these protections reduces safety and should only be done with caution.”
Users ready to take this risk can open the registry publisher, click on “Start”, click on “Execute”, type “Regedit”, then click on “OK”. Carrying out the register before making changes is highly recommended.
By deactivating them by default, Microsoft will close a path often used in phishing and other malware that operates indirect access to risky file types.
A separate list of the Microsoft 365 roadmap entitled “The new confidence center settings to block file openings using unsecured protocols” explains “the new parameters in the confidence center will allow users to restrict or authorize the Opening Uing FTP / HTTP Protocol to Frontgage Procedure (FPRPC). ” This change should be deployed this month.
