Microsoft confirms major Windows data-deletion bug (sort of) and offers an (awkward) fix

If your files were deleted due to the latest Windows Update, you might be able to get them back.

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What you need to know

Updated February 19, 2020:The bottom of this article now includes a guide on how to move files to a new account. This could help you restore your lost files.

Microsoft acknowledged that the latest Windows Update has a bug that could delete people’s files and cause the Start Menu and settings to boot up in their default state. The company also has a fix that could restore people’s files in some cases. While the bug doesn’t appear to be widespread, it is a serious issue for those affected. In some cases, the deleted files cannot be recovered, at least with the methods tried so far.

The deletion issue came with Windows 10 KB4532693, which shipped recently. People on aMicrosoft answers forumhighlighted the issue (via Windows Latest).

Now, more details and a potential fix have been shared by Microsoft employees.Windows Latestspoke with several members of the Microsoft support team, which states that “Microsoft is aware of this known issue and our engineers are working diligently to find a solution for it.”

There is a current fix that works for some PCs, though it’s an awkward solution that doesn’t work in all cases. The bug seems to create a temporary user account where the deleted files are kept. You can create a new local account, transfer the data from the created temporary account to the new local account, and restore your data. While this works in some cases, it’s not a surefire fix for the issue. Some report that their files are permanently removed from their system.

Below is a our guide to help move files to a new account, which should ease the process a bit. If you’ve been affected by this issue, it will create a temporary user account. You might be able to recover your files by moving them from the new temporary local account to a new local account. This solution isn’t 100 percent effective, but could save your files. You can also check out our full guide onhow to use a local account to fix issues on Windows 10, which includes how to create a local administrator account, how to remove an old account, and more.

Moving files to a new account

To move your files to a new account, use these steps:

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Once you complete the steps, your files will be available in the new account.

Alongside transferring your files, you want to make sure that your apps are still accessible from the Start menu. Although it’s rare, you may need to reinstall and reactivate some apps because some apps only work per account and not per computer.

If you also use OneDrive, you can use these steps toset up your account again.

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.