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When saving files to your personal OneDrive, certain characters are automatically renamed by Microsoft 365 apps, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

From: 

To:

  • Filenames that contain , are changed to ^J

  • Filenames that contain # are changed to ^N

  • Filenames that contain & are changed to ^0

  • Filenames that contain ~ are changed to ^F

How do I prevent Microsoft 365 apps from renaming my files in OneDrive?

Ensure that you do not use invalid or restricted characters in filenames, such as , # " * : < > ? / \ | 

Read the full list of Invalid file names and file types in OneDrive, OneDrive for Business, and SharePoint.

Sometimes, OneDrive can rename it for you. In those cases, just select the Rename button in the notification you receive. Learn more about When OneDrive renames items with invalid characters.

Why can't I share files with changed filenames?

If you shared a filename that contained invalid characters and was then renamed, the people you shared the file with are unable access it because the filename has changed. To resolve this:

  1. Rename the file. Ensure that you do not use invalid or restricted characters in filenames, such as , # " * : < > ? / \ |

  2. Share the renamed file again. Learn more about sharing OneDrive files and folders.

Need more help?

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For technical support, go to Contact Microsoft Support, enter your problem and select Get Help. If you still need help, select Contact Support to be routed to the best support option.

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Admins should view Help for OneDrive Admins, the OneDrive Tech Community or contact Microsoft 365 for business support.

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