Attachment file name and file type filtering

This web page explains what to do about messages that have been filtered by the University of Cambridge central email scanner. The scanner alters email to remove viruses and other dangerous content.

In particular, the scanner filters out attachments that contain executable programs, or which have filenames that could trigger bugs in common email software, or which could make it easier for malicious email to trick users. This is to provide an additional level of protection beyond that provided by the anti-virus software.

If a message has been filtered for this reason, the problematic attachment is deleted and replaced by a notice similar to this:

This is an automated message from the University of Cambridge's
central email virus filter.

The original email attachment "program.exe"
had an unacceptable file name or type, so it has been deleted and
replaced by this notice. For more information about the virus filter
and advice on what to do about this message, see
<http://www.cam.ac.uk/cs/email/scanner/filetype.html>

At Thu Jul 10 12:34:56 2003 the virus scanner said:
Executable DOS/Windows programs are dangerous in email

If the message is legitimate and you wish to get a copy of the attachment that was deleted, you must contact the sender of the message and ask them to zip the attachment and re-send it. The Computing Service does not keep any copies of deleted attachments.

Click here for more information on the email scanner.