Windows 10: Unable to rename/delete or move folders since updates KB4090913/14

An issue has surfaced for me since updates KB4090913 and KB4090914, and is still there after today;s KB4088776 update.

If attempting to rename/delete/move a folder that is images (jpg, png etc), an error comes up:
"The action can't be completed because the folder or a file in it is open in another program. Close the folder and try again". Which does not resolve the issue.

I have tried restarting computer and attempting to either rename/delete/move with no other programs open. The error still happens.
However, if I copy the contents of folder to a new folder in different location, then go back to original folder and delete the contents, I can then rename/delete/move that folder.

I can't find anything in Process Explorer to give any indication what it may be, and have looked at all event logs as well.

This has only started since the above mentioned updates installed.

Am on Windows 10 Pro 1709 Build 16299.309. Have 16 GB RAM and folders in question are located on internal D: drive HDD

Any thoughts?

:)

 

Can't move, rename, or delete folders

We appreciate your response, Benjamin. Since it's only happening on the Program Files (x86), there could really be an application running on the computer that is blocking your action. We suggest that you check for an app in Task Manager that might belong
to the Program Files (x86), it's usually in Startup tab. You can also provide us a screenshot of the Startup tab.

We're looking forward to your feedback.

 

Can't move, rename, or delete folders

Hi Benjamin,

It's really odd that you cannot do anything to the folders on your computer, though it seems that you're the administrator of your computer. However, can you provide us the answers to these questions for us to isolate your concern:

• Is this the first time you experienced the issue?
• Were there any changes made on the computer prior to the issue (i.e., updates, software installation)?
• Where are the folders saved?
• Have you tried creating a new user account to replicate the issue?
• Have you checked in safe mode if it's the same?

We're looking forward to your response.

 

I just signed up to respond to you, because I have been having the exact same issue.

I copy and rename folders on my Windows 10 Drive daily for work and noticed this issue for a week or so.

I figured out the Update which happened on the 6th March caused it and indeed, the ones you mention above KB4090913,
KB4090914, KB4088776 are the ones I believe causing this issue.

I am trying to work out which one it is - but going back to the 6th on system restore cured this problem for me, but if I work out which one it was, I can then try to hide it from future updates.

Annoying, because what this essentially did was lock files in explorer and so even my overnight backup was getting stuck trying to read files on my desktop for example, which have never been an issue before.

If I work out the one that caused it, i'll report back.

 

It only started for me after the KB4090913 and KB4090914 updates installed. Prior to those, all was working okay. As as i did the restart after the updates, i started having the trouble.

Usually, if i have issues, I can pinpoint it straight away through Process Explorer, but nothing shows up. Likewise, I also rename/move/delete folders daily, so it is a very frustrating issue. So far I have been using the workaround as mentioned in original post, but that adds time and inconvenience. Strangely, it is only happening with folders that have images (jpg/png/psd etc) in them. And as mentioned, happens after a fresh reboot with no other programs running.

Would certainly like to get it resolved.

 

hi, I joined here to also add that I am seeing the same thing. Particularly with folders with mp3s inside. I only have 914 and 776 installed and I tried to uninstall 914 and it wouldn't let me. This is creating major headaches for me as well. Please update if you find any solution.

 

Are you running Malwarebytes 3.4.4?
Apparently there is an issue causing exactly what your problem is.
https://forums.malwarebytes.com/topi...omment-1222713

 

*Edit: Same steps below apply for bill0287 (just ignore the example of when I stated pictures, and replace that with mp3s)

I have a possible solution for that, yet let's figure out exactly what could be causing this. I've read other posts with similar issues. So please post back a reply for the question that follows in the steps below =)

1) Download & Install LockHunter: LockHunter is a free 64/32 bit tool to delete files blocked by any processes (I very highly recommend keeping this application since it is very useful)
2) Right click the folder that has the images > then press: What is locking this folder? (refer to the attached picture)
3) What does is say under "What processes are locking this file?" (Please reply back here so we can maybe figure out how to disable the app that randomly keeps your files busy. If you notice the app name and is some sort of private app that you use, and you don't feel comfortable replying with its name, then that's completely okay. You don't have to reply with its name. I respect people's privacies. You can maybe figure out a way to disable/remove that app somehow.)
4) Press the Unlock It! button
5) Now you should be able to move/rename/delete/etc, as long as that app doesn't re-register itself very quickly and re-locks your pictures.

 

I have had the same problem, but with simple pdf files. I'm in accounting, invoicing and overwriting with combined pdfs all day. I mentioned the Malwarebytes statement above to our IT guy and he disabled the program. Unfortunately it did not solve the issue. He is going to restart the server this evening and if that doesn't help we're going to do a system restore to before the updates. I find it frustrating that the program update writers wouldn't allow the 914 update to be uninstalled. Oh - that answers the question as to which update is causing the problem. We uninstalled the others and the problem remains with 914 unable to be uninstalled. Also, does anyone else have a problem with dragging and dropping files no longer working smoothly? It only works on the second attempt for me now. I have also noticed I have to go super slow trying to open 2 pdfs ... the second pdf will only open after multiple attempts.

 

Don't go through the hassle of restoring/ignoring future updates/etc. Install LockHunter, and use that for the time being. It's a very productive application.