finding Outlook attachments if you hit save on a file without moving it to a new location

Every now and then, a user will open an attachment in Outlook and hit save and close then close the file - and then not be able to find the file. That's because Outlook saved the file where it found the file - which is a hidden location that's not obvious to the user.

For intermediate users and above, try this:

If you're using Windows 7/8/10 or Vista, hold down the Windows key and press R (to open the Run prompt). Then in the location bar, put this:

C:\Users\%username%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Temporary Internet Files\Content.Outlook

You'll find one or more folders in there, and one of them is typically the place where Outlook attachments are saved.


If you're using Windows XP, click on Start -> Run and put this into the RUN box and hit OK:

C:\Documents and Settings\%username%\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.Outlook\

You'll find one or more folders in there, and one of them is typically the place where Outlook attachments are saved.



This web page talks about how to find the folder - which isn't something I'd recommend for anyone but the most advanced users (it involves going into the registry editor):

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/817878

The registry entry for the Outlook secure temp folder will guide you to the exact location where you can find Outlook attachments.