Invisible files

[cheer8923]

I got a spyware on my PC and it took me a while to remove it. Here is the strange part:

The folder that contains the files IS EMPTY in Explorer. I've chosen to show all hidden files and yet no file is shown. Under cmd.exe, just dir will list those files. I was unable to delete the folder. However, renaming is OK. Once renamed, the folder can be removed.

What could make those files invisible in Explorer?

Thanks!

 

[TheLad]

If the files are marked as System files, you also have to untick the "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)" to be able to see them in Explorer. When you untick this box, you will be asked to confirm whether you want to do this or not.

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[cheer8923]

I have that unchecked as well. Attrib filename shows nothing.

 

[olin]

some programs hook api to prevent some folders or files to be seen in explorer. like explorer.exe itself, hides a lot of files like histories in content.ie folder...