Un-hiding the file extensions is a very good idea, I always do it.

However some extensions can't be unhidden without hacking the registry.
Among the always hidden extensions are .lnk and .pif, both shortcuts to
executables.

This is how the SirCam virus bit the IT manager at our parent company. He
saved an attachment to his desktop and it showed as filename.xls. He was
expecting an updated spreadsheet from the sender so, he opened it. In
reality the file was named filename.xls.pif so, SirCam executed and then
started Excel and loaded the spreadsheet.

To really make all file extensions show, remove all keys in the registry
named "NeverShowExt". In addition to the usual warnings about hacking the
registry, anyone doing this should be aware that all desktop and start menu
items will now show as shortcutname.lnk or shortcutname.pif. It definitely
makes the menu and desktop look ugly.

Paul

> > .pif is like a shortcut IIRC.  The reason the file has two extensions is
> > that the default windows setup is to hide extensions of know file types.
> > So, this file would show up as ??????.xls, making you think
> it's an excel
> > spreadsheet.
>
>
> The very first thing I do when using a Windows
> computer is disable write cacheing and make it
> UN-hide file extensions. Both are very smart things
> to do when you're dealing with Bill's software.
> :o)
> -Roman

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