Windows 7 What is the <lock> icon in the Windows file-manager, and how do I get rid of it?

[jPaulB]

Hi Everybody,

I have something new happening in my Windows 7.

Three of the directories <Data> <MSOCache> and <Program Data> have tiny 'lock' icons attached to the top of the tree.

I'm guessing these mean that I can not open any of the files.

So far, it has affected all of the PDF manual files I keep in <DATA>. An error message says simply:
"Windows cannot access the specified device,path,or file You man not have the appropriate permissions to access the item".

Where would such a lock come from, and importantly how do I get rid of it so that I can open those files?

Many thanks,
Paul

 

[Schrodinger92]

Hi Paul,

According to what I know (and another MS forum) it means the folders (and files within) are not shared with anyone.
You can try the following steps to resolve this:
1. Right click folder --> Properties --> Security tab.
2. Click "Edit".
3. Add "Authenticated Users" to the list of groups and users.