Microsoft caught enabling automatic backup of OneDrive folders in Windows 11

Microsoft has pushed Windows users to conform to the operating system in the way they want, or as the configuration puts it, the way the company “recommends.” To achieve this goal, Microsoft has made it increasingly difficult for users to dodge its servicesthe vast majority of which depends on using the operating system with a Microsoft account.

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In a new report from a Neowin userMicrosoft has apparently been caught quietly changing the way Windows 11 is configured on new devices, particularly with OneDrive, the company’s cloud storage service. According to the user, Microsoft has now automatically enabled OneDrive folder backup without asking the user’s permission, meaning folders like Desktop Pictures, Documents, Music, and Videos will automatically sync to a user’s OneDrive account.

Previously, users received a Windows notification asking if they wanted to enable automatic folder backup in OneDrive, which is actually a pretty cool feature when used correctly – and with consent. However, it seems from reports Microsoft just enabled this feature without asking anyone’s opinion or informing anyone, leading many users to report that their desktops were filling up with green check marks appearing next to files and shortcuts – verifying that those files had been downloaded.

To stop automatic backup

1. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the notification area, click the Settings icon, and then tap Settings
2. Go to the “Sync & Backup” tab and click “Manage Backup”
3. Disable any folders you don’t want to back up to OneDrive and confirm the changes
4. If you have an older version of OneDrive with the classic tabbed interface, go to the Backup tab and click Manage Backup > Stop Backup > Stop Backup