A Microsoft white paper entitled Understanding Executable Content in Microsoft Products looks at the file types in Microsoft products that are potentially executable, and explains the safeguards that protect against mishandling them.

"Many of the file types considered potentially unsafe by one or more Microsoft products contain potentially executable content and are also file types that people use every day to share ideas, collaborate, and get work done," the white paper states. "By following a few rules and guidelines, you can share these files safely without worrying about restrictions."

Click here to access the Microsoft white paper.