This article contains instructions to display your hidden shortcuts when the "Malicious fake file secured" alert message appears in Avast Antivirus and Avast One.

The Windows shortcuts (with .LNK file name extensions) help you to quickly open linked files, folders, or drives without inconveniently browsing various locations on your Windows PC. These shortcuts are typically displayed as icons in your Windows Start Menu or your Desktop.

One of the common malware attacks can hide your existing shortcuts and replace them with malicious fake files using the same names and icons. After clicking any of these fake files, malware can spread from your PC via removable drives and/or connected networks to infect other PCs. When a malicious fake file is detected, Avast can delete or move it to Quarantine. However, it cannot display your hidden, original shortcuts. If needed, you can display your hidden shortcuts manually.

Display hidden shortcut

Updated on: 14/09/2022