Make Extensions Visible in Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows hides extensions for known file types. This "feature" is used by hackers to disguise executable and zip viruses as benign PDF files.  It is a "feature" exploited by the CrytoLocker virus writers.

Hiding extensions undermines users. The steps below show to change this default setting.

Open My Computer

Open the My Computer file folders.

Select Folder and Search Options

In Windows 7, click the "Organize" pull down to access "Folder and Search Options". In Windows XP, this may be in the View menu.

Uncheck "Hide Extensions"

In the Folder Options dialog box, uncheck the option to "Hide extensions for known file types".  This option is towards the bottom of the options shown in the image below.

Click "OK" to exit.