Windows Live OneCare Deletes Outlook Files

Users of the recently launched Windows Microsoft Live OneCare have reported on Microsoft's support forums that virus scans performed by the service have resulted in the deletion of data on their Outlook files including e-mail, scheduling, and collaboration data on their PCs.

While representatives and volunteers at Microsoft struggled to help users cope with deletions, suggestions and advice from phone-based Microsoft support personnel have managed to tackle many users' problems. A Microsoft official issued an official statement saying that the problem will be will be fixed in the next engine update, scheduled for Tuesday, March 13.

In the meantime, users are advised to manually enter an exemption into their OneCare settings for the personal files folder where the .PST file is kept.

Users have criticized Windows Live OneCare saying that the cure to the problem has caused more damage than a virus would have. The news comes at a time when OneCare is in the spotlight for failing the antivirus test, and coming in last, out of 15 antivirus brands tested.

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