InDesign 21.4 Bug: Unable to Move Multiple Selected Objects When Dragging Over Placed Images

Forum|Forum|26 days ago
May 27, 2026
271 replies
11139 views

In the latest update of InDesign when I have multiple shapes and frames on the page selected, if my cursor is above something like a rectangle with content/picture inside it, I only move the picture that is below it at the time.

Rather than the whole selection of objects as it used to. I tested before and after the update and it was something that only broke with 21.4. If I cursor over a solid shape object while still selecting the entire group (including the photo frame) that then moves the entire section but only if cursor above a placed fill object does it break.

What could possibly be happening?

Correct answer nik.m

Hi, we released InDesign version 21.4.1 today that includes a fix for this issues. Please check out: https://helpx.adobe.com/indesign/desktop/whats-new/release-notes.html

Please update InDesign and let us know how it goes.

If you do not see the update in the Creative Cloud Desktop App, check out: https://helpx.adobe.com/creative-cloud/apps/manage-apps/creative-cloud-apps/update-creative-cloud-apps-manually.html

Thanks,

Nikunj

Show previous replies

ihector

Participating Frequently

I’m also experiencing this issue. There is also a related problem with object alignment, in that I can no longer set an object as a key object to align to: with multiple objects selected, the moment I click one to set it as my key object, it deselects all the others.

S

Simon5CE7

Inspiring

I have this same issue. I found the workaround with the shift key. The way it works for me is:

1. Make the selection

2. Hold Shift key

3. Click and drag the selection.

Holding shift after you click the selection only moves one object, so it needs to be in that order.

I can also duplicate a selection with the option key:

1. Make the selection

2. Hold Shift key + Option key (I find I can press either first)

3. Click and drag the selection.

leo.r

Community Expert

Yes, a known bug in InDesign 21.4. Revert to 21.3 until it’s fixed. More info here:

dan_watkins

Participant

Thank you, that did the trick! Hopefully they can fix that bug soon!

dan_watkins

Participant

When selecting two objects to align together, I was able to select both objects and then click on the outside object to assign it as the key object and then align the other object to it. This all changed yesterday and I can no longer use this function.

I am using windows 11 and have InDesign 21.4 currently installed. Has anyone else had come across this issue and had any luck troubleshooting this?