Can we expand the allowed file types?

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acknak
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Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by acknak »

The restriction on what file types are allowed for attachments cause undue problems. I think they should be removed entirely--or at least expanded to include .csv and .txt text files.

The restrictions don't help: it's a simple test on the file name; a moderately sophisticated user can already attach any type of file just by changing the file name.

If someone attaches an inappropriate file, we can handle it by notifications and a moderator can delete the file--just as we already do.

The restrictions complicate and confuse new/beginning users when we ask them to attach a file; for example:
viewtopic.php?f=9&t=66947

If the user needs to attach a text file, we have to explain and they have to figure out how to zip the file, or change the name.

As far as I can see, the change(s) can be made through the admin control panel (no sysadmin needed) but I don't understand the permissions screen(s) clearly to do it myself. I don't see any single setting that says "allow any file" but maybe I missed it.

It might be possible for a bad actor to attach a malicious file of some kind by editing an old post; I don't know if that change would bump the post/thread up to the "new/changed" threads where someone would be likely to see it. But that's already possible so it's no worse at least.
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floris v
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by floris v »

Good idea. You can change those options in the admin panel, but I had to search a while for the right pane. ;)
Third tab - Messages (I have the Dutch language interface, so bear with me, I will get some of the captions wrong).
In the left navigation area, select Organize Extension groups (third below Attachments).
That lists
- Documents - Allowed,
- Plain text - Not allowed.
Click the green gear to change options for plain text and tick Allowed and Allowed in private messages.
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RoryOF
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by RoryOF »

+1

As acknak says, we can quickly remove any objectionable file. It at least would make sense that the main file types of the suite could be uploaded.
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by thomasjk »

+1
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Hagar Delest
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by Hagar Delest »

+1.

I've allowed all extensions except: Flash, Real media (ram, rm) and Windows media (wma, wmv).
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floris v
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by floris v »

To be done for all other language forums as well, I suppose?
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Hagar Delest
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by Hagar Delest »

Indeed. I've PMed the NL_admin group with this message:
Hi All,

For the record, we have decided to allow the file extensions that can be uploaded in the English board. This restriction was more counter-productive than protecting against supposed threats.

For further information, see: viewtopic.php?f=102&t=66950

Don't hesitate to allow more extensions on your own boards if you feel that the restriction could lead to bad user experience regarding the forum.

Kind regards,
Hagar
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acknak
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by acknak »

Hagar Delest wrote:I've allowed all extensions except: ...
Lovely! Thanks, Hagar.

And, of course, if some unforeseen problem turns up, we can undo the change.
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r4zoli
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by r4zoli »

+1
Changed in Hungarian forum.
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by Villeroy »

Thank you.
Please, edit this topic's initial post and add "[Solved]" to the subject line if your problem has been solved.
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Re: Can we expand the allowed file types?

Post by Jan_J »

Thanks, seems OK
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