This is a very odd problem I'm having. Basically, I can't unhide file extensions in Windows XP. I know that technically it should be easy. Go to Tools --> Folder Options --> View --> Uncheck the "hide extensions for known file types" option.

The problem is, it doesn't work. I can uncheck the above 100 times, click apply, and once I close the menu, the option will be check again. Automatically. Instantly.

I have no ideas how to solve this. Does anyone have any ideas or can suggest a possible solution or cause?

Hello jackburton and welcome to PCHF.

The first question I would have is are you logged on as Administrator or with administrative privileges?

It's possible the operating system won't allow a limited user account to make such a change.

If you have sufficient privileges on the machine then I suspect the problem is malware related so please post back.

Hi guys. Thanks for replying. Yes, I am logged in as administrator. There is only one user account, mine, and it has full administrator privileges. I honestly don't know when this started to happen, but yes, I suspect it might be malware, though what I have no idea. I have scanned my computer with every spy-ware and anti-virus software I know of, for other reasons, and it has remained. In fact, I just did another sweep earlier today, and the problem still persists.

Any other thoughts?

I researched your issue a bit and from what I learned it would appear in many cases a trojan is responsible.

Malware doesn't like us to see file extensions.

I would suggest you click on the "Prework" in my signature and follow instructions carefully.

Once you post the logs I shall turn this over to the security team.

Will watch for your post.

Is there a malware cleaner of some type I can try using?

Best thing now is to do the steps in the "Prework" (it's a detailed guide complete with directions as to tools to use) and when done the security team will make sure you are clean.