Yes — but whether you can unblock it depends on which Outlook you’re using and where the block is happening.
Outlook blocks .py files because they’re considered executable and potentially unsafe.
🔹 1. If you’re using Microsoft Outlook (desktop app)
Outlook blocks certain file types before you can even save them. There is no simple “unblock” button.
✔ Options:
Option A — Ask the sender to compress it
Ask them to:
- Zip the file (
script.py→script.zip) - Or rename it (
script.py→script.txt) and tell you to rename it back
Zipped files usually pass through fine.
Option B — Use Webmail instead
Try opening the email in:
- Outlook on the web
- Microsoft Exchange (if work account)
Sometimes the web version lets you download attachments the desktop client blocks.
Option C — Change Group Policy / Registry (advanced)
On a personal PC (not corporate managed), you can modify Windows registry settings to allow blocked extensions.
Add this registry key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\<version>\Outlook\Security
Add a String Value called:
Level1Remove
Set its value to:
.py
Restart Outlook.
⚠️ This will allow .py files through — but reduces security.
Corporate IT policies may override this.
🔹 2. If you’re using Outlook.com
You generally cannot override the block yourself.
Your only practical option:
- Ask the sender to zip the file
- Or share it via:
- OneDrive
- Dropbox
- Google Drive
🔹 3. If this is a work / NHS / corporate account
It’s almost certainly blocked at the mail server level.
You won’t be able to override it locally.
🔹 Practical Recommendation
The cleanest solution:
Ask the sender to zip it or share it via a cloud link.
That avoids registry edits and security changes.