Member Avatar for frimpage

while looking through my computer I discovered that Vista has doubled all my photos, and put them in a hidden folder for each picture
why is this happening and how do i stop it from happening again?

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by PhilliePhan

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This looks like the VAIO import/backup behaviour mentioned rather than a Windows bug. On many Sony VAIOs a bundled photo-import or backup utility (or an AutoPlay action) will quietly copy images into hidden folders when a camera or card is attached, producing the “doubled” files you found. ’s malware concern is valid too — a quick verification checklist is prudent before removing anything.

Steps to diagnose (non-destructive)

  • Show hidden files: Control Panel → Folder Options → View → select “Show hidden files and folders” (leave “Hide protected operating system files” checked until you need it).
  • Inspect the hidden folder names and compare file properties (right‑click → Properties → Details) and timestamps/EXIF to see which copy is original.
  • Do a binary compare of a suspect pair from an Administrator command prompt to confirm identical files:
fc /b "C:\photos\IMG001.jpg" "C:\photos\hidden\IMG001.jpg"

How to stop future copies

  • Disable or change the AutoPlay action for cameras/removable drives (Control Panel → Autoplay) to “Take no action” or “Ask me every time.”
  • Uninstall or disable the VAIO/third‑party import utility (Control Panel → Programs and Features) or disable its startup entries (Start → Run → msconfig → Startup).
  • If hidden-attribute cleanup is needed for inspection, use this carefully from inside the photo folder after a full backup and running antivirus:
attrib -h -s /s /d *.*

Recovery and safety notes
Always copy the entire photo folder to an external drive before bulk deletes. Run a full AV scan plus a second-opinion scanner if recent infections were suspected. After confirming originals and backups, remove the hidden copies or change the offending import setting so the duplication stops.

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Member Avatar for PhilliePhan

while looking through my computer I discovered that Vista has doubled all my photos, and put them in a hidden folder for each picture
why is this happening and how do i stop it from happening again?

This is an issue with Vaios.

If your compy is a Vaio, check this out:

Cheers :)
PP

Member Avatar for frimpage

Cheers PP, thats a big help i was having thoughts it might have been a trojan or the like as i have had recent viral trouble too.
Frimpage.

Member Avatar for PhilliePhan

Cheers PP, thats a big help i was having thoughts it might have been a trojan or the like as i have had recent viral trouble too.
Frimpage.

Great!

Though, if you've had some malware, you might want to run the linky below and post the results:

http://www.daniweb.com/forums/thread134865.html

A lot of the baddies today are well-hidden and "stealthed," so a second opinion might be warranted....

Happy Christmas :)
PP

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