Microsoft fixes bug that stops Windows 11 from erasing user data after a reset

Fix is included in Microsoft’s latest round of Patch Tuesday updates

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With the release of its latest round ofPatch Tuesdayupdates,Microsofthas fixed a known issue that led to user data not being completely wiped after resetting aWindows 10orWindows 11PC.

First discovered by Microsoft MVP Rudy Ooms back in February, the bug led tosome user data remaining readablein the “Windows.old” folder following either a a remote or local wipe in Windows. At the same time, the issue also moved data encrypted withBitlockerinto the same folder though afterwards it was readable as the data was no longer encrypted.

According to the software giant, the bug was caused by itscloud storageserviceOneDrive. Microsoft previously explained in a post on theWindows Health dashboardthat signing out or unlinking OneDrive before resetting a Windows device could serve as a workaround while it worked on an update to fix the issue.

Thankfully though, by installing the latest updates on your Windows PC, you can patch the issue once and for all and you won’t even have to mess with OneDrive when wiping a PC or even multiple PCs.

Fix could take some time to work

Although Microsoft released its new KB5011493 update to address this issue on bothWindows 10and 11, it could take some time for the fix to take.

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In a newsupport document, the company revealed that on some devices, it might take up to seven days after installing the update to “full address the issue and prevent files from persisting after a reset”.

While this may be inconvenient for IT admins or others who constantly find themselves wiping Windows devices, Microsoft has another workaround. For the update to take effect immediately, users can manually trigger Windows Update Troubleshooter by followingthese instructions.

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Now that Microsoft has finally nipped this issue in the bud, Windows users will once again be able tosell their old PCswithout being concerned that some of their personal data may be left behind.

ViaZDNet

After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.

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