Apparently Bitdefender removed safe files.
Bitdefender Total Security combines a bonanza of security components and bonus features in a single top-rated mega-suite that offers protection for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
www.pcmag.com
"My Bitdefender contact explained that “less used and timeworn secondary functionalities have been removed…as part of a continuous revision in terms of user needs.” Also dropped are the Safe Files component, which aimed to balk
ransomware by banning unauthorized changes to protected files, and the File Vault encryption system. Note that enhanced Ransomware Remediation takes up the slack left by removing Safe Files. In testing, it proved effective."
Bitdefender should automatically upgrade to the new version when available but it still didn't on any of my systems.
Stay informed about the latest version of Bitdefender security software for Windows.
www.bitdefender.com
I finally decided to "force" the update and just installed the latest 25 version on my VM and will test it in the next days vs new MW/RW.