Word Metadata
When you save a document in Microsoft Word, Word will save additional data in
the document called metadata. This information is used to enable features of
Microsoft Word (like revision histories), or to enable other software to
automatically index the document intelligently (like author information).
Regardless, while this information may be useful to the author or inside
a corporate network, it is usually very unwanted when the document is shared
outside of your trusted network.
Some examples of metadata stored in a Word document include:
- Author's name
- Author's company name
- The name of your computer
- The name of your server where you stored the document
- The names of previous authors or editors of the document
- Embedded OLE objects, such as Excel Spreadsheets used to build charts or graphs
- Document revision history, including the text added or deleted in the revision.
- Template information
- Comments
- Watermarks (like "DRAFT")
Metadata example: Tracked Changes
Tracked changes in Microsoft Word are one of the most dangerous types of hidden metadata because they are often invisible, and can contain drafts of your document that you would never want anyone to see.
Below are two snapshots of the same file. On the left, "View Markup" is turned OFF so the revision history is invisible, but it's still embedded in the document and easy for others to find. SendShield catches Tracked Changes and other hidden data in your Word files before you email them.
This image shows the difference between "View Markup" turned off (on the left) and turned on (on the right):
(Click to enlarge)
See Also
Microsoft Excel Metadata
Microsoft PowerPoint Metadata
