Have you ever found yourself staring at a document or a phone screen, wondering where all that random text came from? It's a rather common, and frankly, a bit frustrating experience. You might be working on something important, like a very large document, and suddenly, there are extra words, numbers, or even blank spaces that you just did not put there. Or perhaps, you are just going about your day, and your phone buzzes with a message, maybe from a big company, giving you a code you never asked for. So, this sort of thing can really throw you off your game, you know?

These unexpected bits of information, whether they appear in your word processing files or pop up as unsolicited messages on your phone, can feel quite confusing. They might make you worry about your work, your data, or even your personal online safety. It’s a bit like finding a mystery scribble in a book you thought was finished, or getting a secret note that isn't for you. And, you know, it just feels a little bit unsettling when things happen without your direct input.

This article will help you make sense of these odd occurrences. We will look at why you might be seeing these random insertions in your documents, how to handle strange characters, and what to do when you get those unexpected verification codes. Basically, we aim to give you some clear steps to take back control of your digital space and feel more secure. So, let's figure this out together, shall we?

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Table of Contents

• Understanding Unwanted Text in Documents
  • Unexpected Text, Numbers, and Spaces in Word
  • Dealing with Permanent Text Boxes
  • Strange Characters and Unreadable Text
  • Track Changes and Unwanted Edits
  • Excel Woes: Random Patterns and Strikethroughs
• Deciphering Unsolicited Verification Codes
  • Why You Get Random Codes
  • What to Do About Unwanted Texts
  • Protecting Your Accounts
• General Tips for Digital Document Health
• Frequently Asked Questions About Random Text

Understanding Unwanted Text in Documents

It's a rather common complaint, you know, when your documents start acting up. Whether it is a word processor file or a spreadsheet, seeing things you did not put there can be quite unsettling. This part will look at some of the common ways random text appears in your files and what you might do about it. So, let's explore these strange happenings, shall we?

Unexpected Text, Numbers, and Spaces in Word

Many people have faced this problem: "Ms word inserts random text, numbers and spaces into large document i am working on a large document (over 350 pages) which i am trying to edit for minor errors in." This can be incredibly frustrating, especially with a big project. Often, this happens because of certain settings or even file corruption. It is almost like the software is guessing what you want to type, but getting it wrong. You might also find these issues crop up after copying and pasting content from other sources, which can bring hidden formatting with it. A bit like bringing home a stray cat that then makes itself at home.

To fix this, you might try a few things. First, check your Word options for "AutoCorrect" settings or "AutoFormat As You Type" features. Sometimes, these helpful tools can go a bit overboard and insert things you did not intend. Also, it might be worth checking if your document is set to a "Draft" view or has any special compatibility modes turned on. Saving the document as a new file, perhaps in a different format like `.docx` if it is an older `.doc` file, can sometimes clear up hidden issues. So, it's worth a shot, anyway.

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Dealing with Permanent Text Boxes

Another odd issue some folks encounter is a "permanent text box (or table) on every document, old or new." This appears "For a blank document, this appears as a single box across." This suggests a problem not just with one file, but with the software's basic setup. It is as if a default template has been changed without your knowing. This kind of problem often points to an issue with the normal template file in Word, often called `Normal.dotm`.

If you are using Office 2016 on Windows 10, this `Normal.dotm` file can sometimes get corrupted or altered. When Word starts, it uses this file to create new documents. If it has a permanent box in it, every new document will have it too. You might try finding this file and renaming it (perhaps to `Normal.old`). Word will then create a fresh, clean `Normal.dotm` file the next time you open it. This can often clear up such stubborn, persistent issues. Just make sure Word is completely closed before you go looking for that file. It's a simple trick, but often very effective.

Strange Characters and Unreadable Text

Imagine this: "my son was doing a project in word and after few days when i opened the document it shows some non readable characters." This is a rather common sign of file corruption or issues with character encoding. It is like trying to read a book where some letters have turned into symbols you do not recognize. This can happen if a file is not saved correctly, if the software crashes, or if it is moved between different systems with different language settings. Or, you know, sometimes it just seems to happen out of nowhere.

To try and fix this, you might first try opening the document in a different program or an older version of Word if you have one. Sometimes, opening it as "Recover Text from Any File" within Word's open dialog can help pull out the readable parts. You could also try copying the content section by section into a new, blank document. If the problem persists, it could be a font issue, so changing the font might help reveal the true text. You know, it's a bit like trying different keys until one fits.

Track Changes and Unwanted Edits

The "How to stop word from making random insertions and deletions when track changes is turned on" question comes up quite a bit. "I've had this problem with a number of projects recently." Track Changes is a useful tool, but it can sometimes behave in unexpected ways, especially if documents are shared or merged. It might seem like the program is just adding or taking away things on its own, which is not at all what you want. This often happens due to hidden formatting, or if different versions of Word interact in odd ways. It is a bit like having a co-editor who makes changes you do not see until it is too late.

To manage this, ensure everyone working on the document is using the same version of Word, or at least compatible versions. Before sharing, you might want to "Accept All Changes and Stop Tracking" to clean up the document. Also, check the "Review" tab for any hidden comments or formatting marks that might be influencing the changes. Sometimes, simply turning Track Changes off and then on again can reset it. So, that's something to try, anyway, if you are running into this particular issue.

Excel Woes: Random Patterns and Strikethroughs

Excel files can have their own set of strange issues. "I open this excel file in teams and this is what i see when i try to change the style, this is what i view, My colleagues doesn't have the same issue on this file." This suggests a local display or software problem rather than a file issue itself, especially if others do not see it. Then there is "There is still some thing causing random patterns of text bugs." And "I came to them today and for whatever reason out of nowhere they all have strike." These are rather frustrating problems for financial models, where precision is key.

For the style change issue, try clearing your Excel cache if you are using Teams, or ensure your Excel software is up to date. Sometimes, a simple restart of the computer can fix display glitches. For random text bugs and strikethroughs, especially if they appear "out of nowhere," it could be conditional formatting rules that have gone awry, or even a corrupted add-in. Check the "Conditional Formatting" rules in Excel to see if any are applying strikethroughs unexpectedly. Also, consider opening the file in "Safe Mode" to see if an add-in is causing the trouble. It's a bit like trying to find a needle in a haystack, but these steps can help narrow it down. Learn more about document integrity on our site for further reading on file health.

Deciphering Unsolicited Verification Codes

Getting texts you did not ask for, especially those with codes, can be quite alarming. "Randomly received text message from microsoft about an access code," or "Hey guys, i keep getting unsolicited texts from microsoft with a six digit number followed by use this code for microsoft verification." Some people even get "more than 40 of these texts." This kind of thing makes you wonder, "Should i be concerned someone is trying to get into my account?" And, you know, that is a very fair question to ask.

Why You Get Random Codes

These random codes are usually part of a two-step verification process. When someone tries to log into an account that has this security feature turned on, the system sends a code to the registered phone number or email. If you are getting these texts without trying to log in yourself, it most likely means someone else is trying to get into your account. They might have your password, or they are just guessing. The system is working as it should, preventing unauthorized access by asking for that extra code. So, it's a security feature doing its job, even if it feels a bit intrusive.

Another reason, though less common, could be a simple mistake. Someone might have typed their own phone number incorrectly when setting up their account, accidentally putting yours instead. Or, it could be a system glitch, though this is less likely for repeated messages. The key thing is, if you are not trying to log in, someone else probably is. It's a bit like getting mail for a neighbor; usually, it's just a mix-up, but sometimes it means someone is trying to get into your mailbox.

What to Do About Unwanted Texts

If you are getting these random verification codes, the first thing to do is not to use them. Do not enter the code anywhere. Do not reply to the text. "So i randomly got a message from this number" is a common start to this problem. The texts themselves are not usually harmful; it is what someone might do with the code that matters. The most important step is to change your password for the account associated with the codes. Choose a strong, unique password that you do not use anywhere else. This will stop whoever is trying to get in, as their old password will no longer work. You know, it's a simple, but very effective defense.

After changing your password, make sure to review the security settings for that account. Look for options like "trusted devices" or "recent activity" to see if there are any logins you do not recognize. You might also want to set up an authenticator app for two-step verification instead of relying on text messages, as these are generally considered more secure. And, you know, it just adds another layer of protection, which is always good. Explore our guide to online security for more proactive steps.

Protecting Your Accounts

The fact that you are getting "quite a few unrequested verification code requests texted to my phone" means someone is rather persistent. This is a clear sign to take your account security seriously. Always use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to help you keep track of them. Turn on two-step verification for every service that offers it, and if possible, choose an authenticator app over SMS codes. It's a bit like putting extra locks on your doors; the more you have, the harder it is for someone to get in.

Be wary of phishing attempts. These are messages or emails that try to trick you into giving up your login details. If you get a text or email asking you to click a link or enter a code, always go directly to the service's website yourself instead of using the link provided. This helps ensure you are on the real site and not a fake one. So, it's always better to be safe than sorry, you know?

General Tips for Digital Document Health

Keeping your digital documents healthy can prevent many of these random text issues. Regularly update your software, whether it is Microsoft Office or your operating system. Updates often include fixes for bugs that cause strange behavior. Back up your important files often, perhaps to a cloud service or an external drive. This way, if a file does get corrupted, you have a recent version to go back to. It's a bit like having a spare tire; you hope you do not need it, but it is good to have just in case.

When working on large documents or shared files, try to save often. If you are collaborating, communicate with your colleagues about how you are using features like Track Changes. Using a consistent version of the software across a team can also help avoid compatibility issues that lead to random text. Also, be careful when copying content from the internet; sometimes, hidden formatting can come along for the ride and cause problems. So, a little bit of care can go a long way, you know?

Frequently Asked Questions About Random Text

Why do I see random characters or symbols in my Word document?

You might see random characters or symbols in your Word document for a few reasons. Often, it means the file itself might be a little bit damaged, or the way the computer is trying to show the text is off. It could also be a problem with the fonts on your computer, or maybe the document was saved incorrectly. Sometimes, if you move a file between different types of computers or programs, it can cause this. So, it's a good idea to try opening it on another machine or converting the file to a new format.

What should I do if I keep getting unsolicited verification codes from a company like Microsoft?

If you keep getting verification codes you did not ask for, it means someone is trying to get into your account. The first thing you should do is change your password for that account right away. Make sure your new password is very strong and unique. Do not use the code you received. Also, check your account's security settings to see if you can turn on an authenticator app for two-step verification, which is generally more secure than text messages. So, it is important to act quickly to protect your account, you know?

Why are my Excel files suddenly showing strikethrough text or strange patterns?

When Excel files suddenly show strikethrough text or odd patterns, especially if your colleagues do not see the same thing, it often points to a display issue or a local software problem. It could be that a setting for conditional formatting has gone a bit wrong, or perhaps an add-in you have installed is causing trouble. You might try restarting your computer, or opening Excel in a safe mode to see if an add-in is the cause. Checking the conditional formatting rules in your workbook can also help uncover what is applying those strikethroughs. So, it's worth checking those things out, anyway.

Dealing with random text, whether in your documents or as unexpected messages, can feel like a puzzle. But, you know, most of these issues have straightforward solutions. By understanding why these things happen and taking some simple, clear steps, you can keep your digital work and personal information safer. Staying alert, updating your software, and using strong security practices are really your best tools. So, keep an eye on your files and messages, and you will be in good shape.