How to use a NULL char in a file name 1

[cgkeller]

In the good old DOS days, I remember that it was possible to use a NULL character in front of a directory name (or a file name), so that it will be invisible and therefore safe from preying eyes. But I don't remember what was that "NULL" character, was it Alt 255 or something like that? Help from fellow programmers would be appreciated.
Charles Keller
Kelowna, BC.

 

[Alt255]

If you go to the DOS prompt and create a directory with the 255 character in the name (hold down the Alt key and tap 255 on the numeric keypad), Windows 9x will show the folder in Explorer but you won't be able to access the contents (you will receive an error stating that the folder has been moved or does not exist). NT doesn't have a problem with the name but, under Win9x, the only way you can access the folder is from the DOS prompt.

Silly Windows Tricks, Part 1:

The only useful way to incorporate this "feature" is to create a folder consisting of the 255 character (several others work also), move all of your "critical" data into it and then create a folder with a name consisting of "_" (the underscore character). Windows doesn't know the difference but, since "_" is a valid folder name, you can fill the folder with lots of inconsequential files. When somebody double-clicks on either of the folders in Explorer, the see the contents of the "_" (underscore) folder.

Silly Windows Tricks, Part 2:

If you really want to deceive the wife and kids, create a sub-sub-sub-sub folder with the 255 character and then use the DOS SUBST command to assign it to a drive letter. An administrator probably won't wonder why he can't access the drive.... but you might be able to fool the wife.

Note: The tips above are only silly tricks. Don't use them to deceive a network administrator. They won't work and they will only make him mad (if you're lucky, they'll only make him laugh). LOL

Alt255@Vorpalcom.Intranets.com
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