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Why can't I open Attachments?

Posted By : Robert of Mesa Community College on January 13, 2003

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For some reason my settings seem to have changed. Now whenever someone sends me an e-mail with picture files attached, I can't open them. At one time I got the box asking which program I wanted to use to open the file, and now it seems to default to whatever that was. How can I fix my settings so that pictures files will open for me again? Thanks!

This question was answered on January 13, 2003. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.


For some reason my settings seem to have changed Now whenever someone sends me e-mail with picture files attached, I can't open them At one time I got the box asking which program I wanted to use to open the file, and now it seems to default to whatever that was How can I fix my settings so that pictures files will open for me again? Thanks!

Your computer may be protecting you from yourself Or, it may have already been invaded.

You did not tell me what e-mail program you use, so if this response is in error, sorry.

Recently, a feature has been added to Outlook to restrict the downloading of files which may potentially contain viruses.

However, the change rides along with Windows updates, so if you haven’t installed any of these lately, this answer may not apply to you.

A description to the updates for Outlook is available at the following link Similar updates for other versions of Outlook have also been launched Do a Google Search, using the words Outlook Download Settings for additional information.

Here's the link for Outlook 98:

office.microsoft.com/downloads/9798/Out98sec.aspx

The settings can be defeated, but the general rule of thumb is "Don't open attachments" unless you know what they are beforehand, and are willing to accept the risk.

If this does not explain the apparent changes in your particular system, a virus scan is definitely in order.

RG

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Posted by Robert of Mesa Community College on January 13, 2003

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