Share via

Security Concern: Why are my work files showing up in my personal recents?

Anonymous
2023-12-22T16:58:34+00:00

I have a Microsoft account using my personal gmail on my home computer. The problem is that in my recent files I am seeing files from my work outlook account that I have never opened on my home laptop nor with this account. Fortunately, at this time, I do not see personal files listed in the recents on my work/outlook Microsoft account.

I am very concerned about the security of files -- who else can see my work files? who else can see my personal files? how can I stop this cross-over and ensure security of files?

Microsoft 365 and Office | Word | For home | MacOS

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

4 answers

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2024-03-01T16:04:47+00:00

    @oluwasegunfunmi ayodele

    I am having the same issue and am trying to turn off sync on my iPhone ap. I am unable to find an option to turn off sync on my phone. Any guidance would

    Be appreciated. Thanks.

    Was this answer helpful?

    2 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  2. Jim G 134K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2023-12-23T18:38:04+00:00

    @ Segunfunmi

    Could you provide a screen shot of the Settings > Accounts dialog? Or at least describe the steps to take to display that dialog? I can't find it.

    Was this answer helpful?

    2 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2023-12-22T19:39:17+00:00

    Hello CWS_982,

    Welcome to the forum. My name is Segunfunmi, and I am an Independent Advisor and Microsoft user just like you. I appreciate you reaching out to me with your query.

    To help you address these issues, here are some steps you can take:

    1. To stop the crossover of files, you can turn off the sync settings in your Microsoft account. This feature can be turned off by going to Settings > Accounts > Sync your settings and moving the slider to the left to Turn Off. Repeat these steps on all devices using the same Microsoft account.
    2. To ensure the security of your files, you can take the following measures:
    • Create a strong password that is significantly different from previous passwords and hard to guess, even if someone knows a lot about you.
    • Add security info to your Microsoft account, such as your phone number, an alternate email address, and a security question and answer. This info can be used to verify your identity if you forget your password or your account gets hacked.
    • Use two-factor verification that helps protect your account by requiring you to enter an extra security code whenever you sign in on a device that isn’t trusted. The second factor can be a phone call, text message, or app.
    • Keep your operating system updated by ensuring it has the latest updates.
    • Never reply to emails asking for your password; be wary of phishing attempts. Never share your password.
    • Check your recent activity regularly to spot any unusual actions.

    Please know that Microsoft takes privacy and security very seriously. Your files are only visible to you unless you choose to share them. If you suspect any suspicious activity on your account, changing your password immediately is recommended.

    I hope these steps help you feel more secure. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to let me know.

    Kind regards, Segunfunmi.

    Was this answer helpful?

    2 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  4. Jim G 134K Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2023-12-22T19:33:41+00:00

    Hi

    You should set up different profiles (aka identities) for your different accounts.

    Outlook profiles/identities

    Each Identity is a folder, except that Identities are now called “Profiles” and the Profile folders are not in the Documents folder.

    Profiles are folders in the hidden Library folder. 

    In Finder, press Shift+Command+L to display the hidden library folder.

    Office 2016, 2019 and 2021 PROFILE LOCATION

    /Users/UserName /Library/Group Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/Outlook/Outlook 15 Profiles/

    There is an app that lets you set the default Profile for Outlook to use. Here’s how to find it:

    In the Applications folder, right-click on Microsoft Outlook.app

    From the pop-up menu choose Show Package Contents

    Open the Contents folder

    Open the Shared Support folder

    Drag the Outlook Profile Manager.app icon to your dock

    Now you can run Outlook Profile Manager.app to add, remove, and set the default profile.

    Was this answer helpful?

    1 person found this answer helpful.
    0 comments