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Why are the folders on my computer appearing as .scr?

Anonymous
2012-03-08T04:46:36+00:00

I have a Windows 7, HP laptop. For the past few weeks the all the file folders on my laptop have started to appear as a screensaver or .scr extension. When I click on them the security dialogue box pops up asking if the user would allow the program to make changes on the computer. After that the files in that folder open up in a  new window. When I plug in an external disk drive, the same thing happens. However, on a separate computer those file folders appear as file folders olnly.

So what is the issue here?

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

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  1. Anonymous
    2012-03-09T01:12:45+00:00

    Hi,

    The SCR file type is primarily associated with 'Script'. In November 2007 the SCR file extension started to be used to transmit a Trojan. As a script or a screen saver this file can execute other files which carry the Trojan. The SCR file may be embedded within a ZIP file which could also contain a file with a double extension. I would suggest you to try the following methods and check if it helps.

    Method 1:

    Run Microsoft Safety Scanner and check if it helps.

    Microsoft Safety Scanner: http://www.microsoft.com/security/scanner/en-us/default.aspx

    Note: The Microsoft Safety Scanner expires 10 days after being downloaded. During this 10 days, it will remove all the virus infected files and folders. I suggest you to create a backup of your data and then Install Microsoft Safety Scanner.

    Method 2:

    Boot to safe mode and check if the issue persists. If the issue does not persists in safe mode, then place the computer in clean boot state and check if it helps.

    Step 1: Boot to safe mode in Windows 7:

    http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Start-your-computer-in-safe-mode

    Step 2: How to troubleshoot a problem by performing a clean boot in Windows Vista or in Windows 7:

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135

    Note: Once you are done with the troubleshooting, try the steps provided in Step 7 to reset the computer to start as usual.

    Hope the information is helpful.

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