In Microsoft 365 and Office 2024, the settings for ActiveX controls have changed to be disabled by default. When ActiveX controls are disabled, you will not be able to create new ActiveX objects or interact with existing ones. This change applies to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio.
What should I do if I encounter this ActiveX message when opening a file?
Were you expecting to receive a file with ActiveX?
Avoid opening unexpected file attachments, even if they appear to come from someone you trust. Phishing attacks often mimic trusted individuals or organizations to deceive recipients into opening malicious files.
Are you being encouraged to change your ActiveX settings by someone you do not know?
Attackers often use deceptive tactics, such as claiming you need to cancel an order or review a legal document, to trick you into downloading a file and enabling ActiveX controls. Legitimate companies will not require you to open an Office file to cancel an order, nor do you need ActiveX to read standard documents.
Are you being encouraged to change your ActiveX settings by a pop-up message?
If you downloaded the file from a website, be cautious of pop-ups or messages urging you to adjust your ActiveX settings. These are common attack methods and may indicate that the file is unsafe.
Steps to enable ActiveX controls if you are confident the file is safe
While enabling ActiveX controls is not recommended due to security concerns, you can enable them through the Trust Center if necessary.
Caution: Changing ActiveX settings will apply to all files in Office applications: Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Visio – not just the file in which you make the change.
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Select File, then Options.
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Select Trust Center, then the Trust Center Settings button.
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Select ActiveX Settings, then make sure Prompt me before enabling all controls with minimal restrictions.
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Select OK, then OK again to save your settings and go back to your document.
For optimal security, Microsoft strongly encourages leaving ActiveX controls disabled unless absolutely necessary.
