Outlook Express 6 – attachment blocking

The default settings in Outlook Express (after version 6, Service Pack 1) is to block access to potentially dangerous file types. There is no readily available list of files which it blocks, but it does tend to block access to some file types which could be considered safe. 

Switching off the attachment blocking

Whilst Outlook’s file attachment blocking is a good idea, sometimes an email may contain a file which you really need. In order to view it, you’ll need to disable attachment blocking.

To disable the blocking feature:

• Click “Options” on the Outlook Express “Tools” menu.
• Click the “Security” Tab.
• Remove the check mark beside “Do not allow attachments to be saved or opened that could potentially be a virus.”
• Click “OK”

You will now be able to open or save any attachment. Select and save the attachment that you needed to access and then turn the attachment blocking on again. 

Always virus scan files sent to you by email before you open them and make sure you know exactly who the sender is before you open it. If you are unsure whether the attachment is safe or not, do not open it.