file extensions 1

[4144]

All of a sudden when I am creating new files and saving them I have to add the extension to the file name or else I get a message that the file may become unusuable. For example with word files I have to add .doc
This happens in my computer in my apartment only and I do not have to do this with my other computers. I use office 2003 on all my computers. Any suggestions on how not to have to extensions when creating new files.

 

[tf1]

Someone has opened Windows Explorer and used Tools | Folder Options | View tab and checked the option 'Hide file extensions for known file types'.

This is a very dangerous setting as it opens a path for someone to be hoodwinked into accepting a malevolent file.

Once you clear that option, you will find that the files you have deliberately added an extension to will now look like filename.doc.doc which is not what you wanted.

You can now see the security risk. If someone sends you a malevolent exe file, such as filename.exe.txt it will show up on your system as filename.txt because that option will have hidden the exe part as it is a known file type.


Regards: Terry

 

[4144]

I looked at the settings you mention above but the option 'Hide file extensions for known file types'has not been checked. Please let me know if you have any other ideas.

 

[tf1]

Does it only happen in Word (Office)? Try opening Word and from the Help menu, run the Repair option to see if that resolves the issue.


Regards: Terry

 

[xlhelp]

When you try to save a file, in the save as dialog box what does "Save As Type" box say? (That also presumes you are using Save as.)

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[4144]

I think you actually have solved the problem as when I check the 'Hide file extensions for known file types' then no longer have to add extensions.

 

[lionelhill]

hang on a moment! Hide extensions does exactly that: it hides the extension. So if you don't have to add an extension, there must already be an extension there, if the file opens with the correct application. Could it be, if you uncheck 'Hide file extensions' you actually have your older files called things like myname.doc.doc?? If so, you are on a slippery path: you can have files like myname.doc.exe which are actually exe files (programs), but dressed up to look like word documents, the problem tf1 mentioned.

 

[4144]

All the files are opening with the correct applications so think all is OK. Thank you for your help it was much appteciated.

 

[SkipVought]

4144,

I notice that over the past 4 years, you have posted several times and have received many good tips related to your stated needs. Yet, you have responded NOT ONCE, to
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Thank Tek-Tip Contributor
for this valuable post![/blue].

The [purple]little purple Stars[/purple] accomplish several important things.

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Skip,
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