Funky file names (~$)

[HenWin]

I have a client who sent me the following:

All my folders have numerous extra files starting with "~$" for every file I
had. Just to make this clear, for every file I have in every folder, there
is a similar file starting with "~$."
All the files in my folders are out of order now. In other words, between
the "~$" files and them being out of order, I can't find anything. When I
try to open the "~$" files I get this message: "Microsoft word needs a
converter to display this file correctly. The feature is not currently
installed. Would you like to install it now?" "

Any idea on what might be causing this kind of problem? What causes the
files that start with ~$ (tilde-dollar sign)? How can I fix it for them?

thanks,

Henry

 

[Cassandra Thompson]

Just a quick answer, you may get a more detailed one.

The ~$ file is created whenever you open a word document (or the
corresponding name). I can actually read those files in our office setup and
they usually display exactly one line of text containing the user name of
the person who has the document open.

I am not sure what other purpose they serve, however they are safely
deletably if the person does not have the corresponding document open.

Regards,
Cassandra