I am being toggled by microsoft and trckclick to the point my email links won't open

Hi Leah R LoneBear,

Uninstalling all Microsoft updates might seem like a quick solution, but it’s not recommended because:

• It can expose your system to security vulnerabilities and break other features.
• It may not fix the root cause, which is often related to default app settings, email security features, or browser configuration rather than the updates themselves.

Here are some detailed steps you can try instead:

1. Verify Default App Settings

Windows updates can sometimes reset link associations.

• Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.
• Make sure your preferred browser is set for HTTP and HTTPS links.
• Also check Choose defaults by link type for MAILTO if using email links.
• Reference: Change default programs in Windows

2. Repair or Reset Outlook (if using Outlook)

If you’re using Outlook, a repair can fix broken link handling.

• Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
• Select Microsoft Office, click Change, then choose Quick Repair (or Online Repair if needed).
• Reference: Repair an Office application

3. Understand Safe Links or Tracking URLs

If your links look like https://trckclick... or safelinks.protection.outlook.com, this is a security feature that rewrites links for phishing protection.

• Learn more: Microsoft Defender Safe Links
• If you’re in a managed environment, your admin controls this. If not, check Outlook > Trust Center > Add-ins for security add-ins.

4. Reset Browser Settings

Sometimes the browser blocks redirects or has a corrupted profile.

• Reset your default browser to its original settings.
• Disable any suspicious extensions.
• Reference: Reset Microsoft Edge settings

5. Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can affect link handling.

Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run:

sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

6. Update Instead of Rolling Back

Sometimes the fix is in the latest patch. Check Windows Update for any pending updates.

Quick Workaround:

Right-click the link → Copy Hyperlink → Paste into your browser. This helps confirm if the issue is with the email client or system settings.

Hope this helps! If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask - I'd be happy to help!