Encoding data files

I have several programmes that call data from simple data text files. How best can I encode these files to stop users messing up the data?

you could write protect them all, and then when the program needs them it simply write-enables them.

Do you mean deliberately mess them up?
If so then you could put them in a zip-file and password it.

you could create your own filetype, so that it doesn't have open, print or edit options etc. This would stop most users, but if someone would want to get at your file, all they would have to do is change the file association info in Folder Options, or simply drag the file into wordpad... Still, better than them messing the file up...

You could also name the file with a DLL extension. People tend not to mess with files they think are important :)

Anywayz, just some ideas...

Laterz

REM

You can also encrypt these data files using specefic equations..........


That's simple

If you decide to use Encryption, use the Xor operator. For beginner's, it's really easy to use and provides safe encryption.