What caused the SSD failure rumors after the Windows update?

Rumors of SSD failures following the Windows 11 KB5063878 security update emerged primarily from social media reports, especially from users in Japan.

The claims centered on SSDs disappearing during heavy write operations and drives becoming inaccessible, sometimes after transferring large files exceeding 50GB.

These symptoms sparked widespread concern that the recent Windows update was causing permanent damage to solid-state drives, fueling panic among users.

How did the SSD failure rumors start after the Windows update?

A Twitter user reported testing several SSDs and claimed the update disproportionately affected those with Phison controllers. These claims quickly spread as similar experiences surfaced online, creating a narrative of an update-linked SSD disaster.

The problem seemed to occur mostly during intense data writes on drives more than 60% full. Some users also reported drives vanishing from the system, only to reappear after reboots.

Did you know?
Phison conducted over 4,500 hours of testing across 2,200 test cycles and found no SSD failures related to the Windows update.

What did Microsoft and Phison find in their investigations?

In response, Microsoft launched an extensive internal investigation, collaborating closely with SSD manufacturer Phison. Both companies performed rigorous testing, including over 4,500 hours of Phison-run tests on suspect drives.

Neither Microsoft nor Phison was able to replicate the reported drive failures. Microsoft also reviewed telemetry data and customer support records, finding no increase in disk failures or corruption connected to the update.

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What role did false documents play in spreading the rumors?

The controversy deepened when a forged document falsely claiming to come from Phison circulated online. This fake document listed specific SSD models supposedly vulnerable to the update, exacerbating fears.

Phison quickly disavowed the document and initiated legal action against those distributing it, warning users to disregard the false information.

How are users advised to handle concerns about the update?

Microsoft advises users worried about the update that they can uninstall KB5063878 through Windows Update settings. Still, the company and Phison maintain that their testing shows no causal link between the update and SSD problems.

Both companies continue to monitor user feedback to address any future concerns promptly, emphasizing transparency and safety.

Thanks to thorough investigations and testing, the initial fears linking the Windows update to SSD failures have been convincingly debunked.