Windows 10: REMOVE a default folder from Controlled Folder Access

We need a way to disable individual default Controlled Folder Access protected folders.


As of this writing, the only way to install and use many programs, especially games, is to disable Controlled Folder Access entirely. Example: Many game applications require write access to the user's Documents area to save progress and this cannot be changed, especially in legacy cases. Whitelisting every installation program, every executable, every temporarily created plugin installer for every application is not feasible for our usage case and that of many others. Upgrading to Windows10 and having this "feature" forced on us brought production to a screeching halt, eventually forcing us to totally disable Controlled Folder Access for all Windows 10 stations and revert to Windows 7 on all other stations.

Hypothetical Scenario: Installer executable that requires write access to the user's Documents folder is created in a TEMP directory and is whitelisted; Malware masquerades as whitelisted file; ALL Controlled Folder Access protected folders are then toast. If only we had the ability to remove the default protected folders, only the Documents folder would be lost and knowing that the Documents folder was unprotected, nothing important would have been stored there. In an environment where dozens of programs are installed and tested every day, the current forced settings are unacceptable.


Please, would some intrepid engineer/technician/ethical hacker/hero kindly fix this or suggest a proven and repeatable workaround because it will save the day for many and elevate you to the status of living legend?

[Humor]

WARNING: Replying to this post with answers similar to "That cannot be done." or "You just allow each application through the Controlled Folder Access." or "That would be the same as turning Controlled Folder Access off completely." or "That is ransomware protection and it is by design..." or any other response deemed solely by me to be not useful, productive, or extremely funny will automatically declare that you consent to the transfer of the ownership of your soul to me or an affiliate of my choosing in perpetuity. After a period of 672 hours from posting transfer of soul ownership consent, all souls collected may be transmogrified to biscuits and consumed. Post carefully. (^~^)

[/Humor]

:)

 

Controlled folder access Problem

I want to use ( Controlled folder access ) for my custom folders like system 32,
but want to remove the default folders like the desktop folder .
Found in :
windows defender > windows defender security center > virus & threat protection >
virus & threat protection settings > Controlled folder access :

Sometimes I cant save or edit things at the desktop with Controlled folder access On.
Yet if turned Off ; then I cant protect my custom folders.

Hows protecting the desktop more important than system 32 ?

Asking for advice to get around this by any means, to delete the default list, so only my custom folders remain in the control access list.

 

?? How do I PW protect Folders in windows

hmmm?
Sharing files and folders overview You can share the files and folders stored on your computer, on a network, and on the Web. The method you choose depends on whom you want to share files with, and what computer they will use to access the files.

When you share files or folders, they are not as protected as they are when you do not share them. People with access to your computer or your network might be able to read, copy, or change files that are in a shared folder. You should always be aware that the files and folders that you share are available to other people and be sure to monitor your shared files and folders on a regular basis.

Important

If your computer is not joined to a domain, you can use the Network Setup Wizard to automatically turn file and printer sharing on or off. To start the Network Setup Wizard, click Start, click Control Panel, click Network and Internet Connections, and then click Network Setup Wizard.
If you both use the same computer

You can put the files you want to share in the Shared Documents folder. Files stored in the Shared Documents folder or its subfolders are always available to other users on your computer.

Step-by-step procedure
Note

If you are connected to a network domain, the Shared Documents, Shared Pictures, and Shared Music folders are not available.
If both computers are on the same network

You can share a folder or drive on your computer with others on the network. You can also control whether the files in the shared folder can be modified by other users.

If your computer is connected to a network domain, use this procedure:

Step-by-step procedure
If your computer is connected to a workgroup, use this procedure:

Step-by-step procedure
Note

If you are connected to a network domain, you will need to set the Access control for the folder or drive after sharing it. For more information, go to To set, view, change, or remove file and folder permissions.
If you want to share your files online

You can publish pictures and documents on the Web using the Web Publishing Wizard. The files will be stored in a private, online folder that you manage.

Step-by-step procedure

If you don't want others to access your files

You can prevent other users from accessing your folders and the files they contain. When your computer is connected to a domain, this is called setting permissions for your file or folder. When your computer is connected to a workgroup, this is called making your folders private.

If your computer is connected to a network domain, use this procedure:

Step-by-step procedure
If your computer is connected to a workgroup, use this procedure:

Step-by-step procedure

'HELP' it can be your friend *Smile

 

Controlled Folder Access is off. Shouldn't this be on?

Suggestion to also read

• this article (ignore ads):
  How to Protect Your Files From Ransomware With Windows Defender’s New “Controlled Folder Access”
• and this thread:
  Controlled Folder Access Feature in Windows 10 Fall Creators Update Questions?