This error appears when Windows blocks your account through NTFS permissions. It usually happens after copying files from another PC, restoring a backup, connecting an old HDD or pen drive, or after certain updates that change access control lists. Your files are safe — the issue is only about ownership and permission, and it can be fixed in minutes using the methods below.
Method 1 — Take Ownership from Folder Properties (GUI)
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Right-click the folder, open Properties, go to Security, open Advanced.
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Next to Owner, click Change, type your username, click Check Names, click OK.
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Enable Replace owner on subcontainers and objects, click Apply.
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Go back to Security, click Edit, select your user, enable Full control, click OK.
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Open the folder again.
Method 2 — Temporarily Lower User Account Control (UAC)
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Press Windows + S, open Change User Account Control settings.
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Move the slider to Never notify, click OK.
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Restart the PC.
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Repeat Method 1 on the folder.
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After fixing, set UAC back to default for security.
Method 3 — Powerful CMD Fix (takeown + icacls)
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
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Run the commands below after replacing the path with your folder path:
Tip: Hold Shift, right-click the folder, choose Copy as path, and paste it into the commands.
Method 4 — For Old HDD, Pen Drive, or Another PC Disk
If the files came from another computer, permissions still belong to the old user. Run Method 3 on the top folder of that drive to reset everything at once.
Method 5 — Run System File Check (SFC)
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
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Run:
sfc /scannowand wait for completion. -
Restart the PC, then try Method 1 or Method 3 again.
Why This Error Happens
Files created on another PC or user account, restored backups, external drives with old permissions, or updates that changed ACL entries can all trigger this message.
Conclusion
This problem is about ownership, not data loss. In most cases, taking ownership or running the two CMD commands restores access immediately. Use the UAC change and SFC scan only if the normal ownership method fails. Follow the methods in order for the fastest and safest result.
FAQ
Will this delete my files?
No. These steps only change permissions.
Which method works fastest?
The CMD method using takeown and icacls.
Do I need to use the hidden Administrator account?
Usually no. The CMD method removes the need.
Why does this happen with pen drives or old HDDs?
Because permissions still point to the old computer’s user.
Should I keep UAC disabled?
No. Turn it back on after fixing the issue.


