I also had this problem. Im not what what causes it, or if we both did something the same to cause it, but here is how to solve it....
1. Download and install the Frameworkx program Vista Shortcut Overlay Manager by clicking on the DOWNLOAD button below.
NOTE: The 2.0 version will work in both the 32 bit or 64 bit version versions of Vista & Windows 7 (Happy Days!). You can also get it from either
Link Removed - Invalid URL or
Vista Shortcut Overlay Remover - Free software downloads and reviews - CNET Download.com as well.
Link Removed due to 404 Error
2. Right click on the program's shortcut and click on Run as administrator.
3. Click on Allow to continue.
4. To Change or Remove the Arrow for All Shortcuts -
A) Select (dot) the arrow option you want for the shortcut arrow. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: If you selected Custom Arrow, then click on Select to navigate to and choose a ICO (icon) file you have downloaded to use.
5. To Remove the "Shortcut" Name from All Shortcuts -
A) Check the box to also remove the - Shortcut name extension for new shortcuts that are created.
6. Click on Apply.
Link Removed due to 404 Error
7. Click on Yes to logoff to apply the changes. (See screenshot below)
Link Removed due to 404 Error
8. Log back on and your done.