Microsoft Finally Fixed That One Nasty Windows Data Wipe Bug

Beforehand, the “remove everything” option didn’t actually do that. Now, after a quick hotfix, Microsoft has fixed this nasty problem.

Windows may be the most-used operating system in the world, but it’s not without its faults. Fortunately, Microsoft is working to iron out the wrinkles, as it proved in a recent update that fixes a bug that prevents a PC reset from wiping everything.

Microsoft’s Nasty Windows 11 Bug, Now Fixed

As reported on Microsoft Support, Windows 11 PCs are getting the KB5011493 update. It’s a really small one, and its sole mission is to take out a nasty bug that reared its head recently:

Addresses a known issue that occurs when you attempt to reset a Windows device and its apps have folders that contain reparse data, such as Microsoft OneDrive or Microsoft OneDrive for Business. When you select Remove everything, files that have been downloaded or synced locally from Microsoft OneDrive might not be deleted.

If this is the first time you’re hearing of this bug, we broke the news in late February 2022 after Microsoft admitted that the “remove everything” tool didn’t actually do that. If you had a linked OneDrive account on your PC before the wipe, it would re-sync your items afterward, meaning the PC wasn’t truly clean.

Fortunately, once this update goes out, this annoying bug will finally be fixed. And then, “remove everything ” will truly do what it says it will do.

A Speedy Solution From Microsoft

This bug may not have seemed like a big deal, but it was potentially devastating for people’s privacy. Sometimes, people rely on the “remove everything” tool to wipe the slate when selling on their computers. However, if the tool doesn’t actually remove everything and the seller doesn’t double-check, they may be handing over more than just hardware.

Fortunately, Microsoft didn’t drag its heels getting a fix out. In just a few weeks after announcing the bug, the company managed to roll out an update that fixes it. As such, be sure to update your machines if you intend to use the “remove everything” tool in the near future.

Another Problem, Fixed

While accidentally leaking data to strangers is never a good idea, Microsoft has deployed a quick fix for its OneDrive issue. And if you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to use a disk wiper to really, truly ensure nothing survives the reset.

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