File association

Definition

File association is the

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mapping between a file extension and the software that attempts to run files with that extension.

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Computer security

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Although file associations are a convenient feature, they also pose some risk. For example, if a person accidentally double-clicks on a piece of malware, it is likely that the malware will be executed and attempt to infect the computer because of [the operating system’s] default file associations. To prevent this, users should consider changing the default file associations for files that are most likely to be used for malicious purposes and least likely to be used for legitimate purposes.

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