Windows 7 - Security in Microsoft Office 2010.

Microsoft Office 2010 has new security features that put you in control. You will also see far fewer pop-up windows and other messages than you did in previous versions of Office.

Message Bar increases security and privacy

The Office 2010 Message Bar alerts you to possible threats from active content. Active content in Office 2010 includes:

• ActiveX controls
• Add-ins
• Data connections
• Macros
• Spreadsheet links

Cybercriminals use active content to launch viruses, worms, and other malicious software. Once activated, these viruses can steal data, damage your computer or network, or use your computer for illegal activities without your knowledge or consent.

Active content from a trusted source can be useful with many Office programs. The Message Bar displays a warning when you try to open a file that contains active content, and then lets you decide if the source is trustworthy.

If you know that you can trust the file, or the file's sender, click Enable Content.