Solved Can't remove "read-only" attribute from folders or files

[rehtse]

It started out with my microSD card - I tried to view the files on my computer and it said "the disk is write-protected" and wouldn't let me view anything. I realized the adapter was locked ,unlocked it and tried again. This time I could view the files but run the Error-checking tool on the card. Same message showed up, "The write disk is protected." Tried another adapter, same thing happened.

I then copied everything I had in the SD card into a new folder on my computer and formated it, thinking this might solve the issue. But of course I wouldn't be here if it had Still can't run the error-checking tool, or create a new folder. I tried to copy the files back to the card and kept getting the same message, that the folders were write-protected. I tried unchecking the "Read-Only" box on the folders, then used command prompt, then went into the folders and unchecked the box for the content instead of the folders (i.e. pics, audio). Nothing's worked.

I'm a little desperate and very frustrated. How do I remove the attribute from the files I copied from my SD card? And how do I fix the issue with my SD card itself?

Thanks a bunch.

 

[Snick]

Hi rehtse,

Here's a possible solution to your permissions issue with your MicroSD card.

Post from Tom'shardware

Read through the entire post(s) regarding files system used in formatting MicroSD card.

Tutorial by Brink:

Read-only File and Folder Attribute

Let us know if this worked for you!

 

[looked]

I'm a little desperate and very frustrated. How do I remove the attribute from the files I copied from my SD card

Also try the take ownership shortcut trick: Take Ownership Shortcut and once you get all files and save them in a safe place, format the card as FAT and see if you're able to use it again.
Unfortunately some memory card manufacturers install nasty utilities that sometimes can create frustration.

 

[RoWin7]

I have the same issue. What does the tutorial mean by "that adapter has the 'lock' switch put down." How would I know if it's down? Device manager?

 

[looked]

I have the same issue. What does the tutorial mean by "that adapter has the 'lock' switch put down." How would I know if it's down? Device manager?

The SD cards have a plastic switch (small button) on one side that prevent people inadvertently deleting data so when the switch is in position ON, you may not delete anything but only read and copy from the card.

 

[RoWin7]

I know about the lock, I thought there was something at the slot on the machine. Mine tells me it's locked whichever way I push it. Time for a new card?

 

[looked]

Time for a new card?

Maybe, but I would first try it on another machine.

 

[rehtse]

Hi rehtse,

Here's a possible solution to your permissions issue with your MicroSD card.

Post from Tom'shardware

Read through the entire post(s) regarding files system used in formatting MicroSD card.

Tutorial by Brink:

Read-only File and Folder Attribute

Let us know if this worked for you!

Miraculously, the software recommended in the first link worked for me! Thank you so much

I know about the lock, I thought there was something at the slot on the machine. Mine tells me it's locked whichever way I push it. Time for a new card?

This was very frustrating, but somehow I fiddled with the lock again after a few days and this time it worked. No idea why...but try it again in two days and see if that works. Good luck!

 

[Snick]

No problem rehtse, glad I could assist you in rectifying your problem.

To the others posting on this thread. If you look closely at your MicroSD or SDcard it should indicate the lock position.

 

[Arron]

YOU CAN THANK ME LATER ! - The Solution is hidden within gpedit.msc

After sifting through all the frankly useless 'help' out there ( e.g. unlock the write protect tab etc, change the registry keys etc...), it's simply a Windows 7 or Windows 10 setting.

Thank you to top-password.com/blog/enable-or-disable-folder-options-in-windows/ for sending me in the right direction.

Windows 10 try the following: - User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer
Windows 7 try this: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Explorer

I tweaked the settings " Remove Security Tab" and "Prevent Access to Drives from My Computer" and then BOOM - disk write permissions returned to my SDHC Card in the Card Reader Drive, H:

Also in Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access > Setting Removable Disks Deny Write Access (select Disabled)