You Asked: Why Do Some Operating Systems Hide File Extensions?
Contents Some Operating Systems Hide File Extensions by Default to Reduce Clutter. It Is Possible to Show the File Extensions If They’re Hidden. Why Does...
Some operating systems hide file extensions by default to reduce clutter. It is possible to show the file extensions if they’re hidden.
Why does Windows hide file extensions by default?
That’s why “Hide extensions for known file types” is a stupid move in Security terms. It allows an attacker to create wolf files that look like sheep. This is to make sure that you don’t accidentally launch an executable that makes itself appear to be a document.
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Why might you want to configure your computer to show your file extensions?
In order to avoid confusion regarding your saved files, you may want to configure Windows to show all common file extensions, such as . zip. This will help differentiate between different archives (and other files). You may also want to configure Windows to show you hidden files and folders.
Marcus Vance is a cybersecurity auditor and technology writer dedicated to educating the public about online safety, data privacy regulations, enterprise security, and emerging cyber threats.
