📎 AI Summary:
In this Windows 7 forum thread, the original poster reports seeing lock icons on certain directories, preventing access to files like PDFs with an access error message. A respondent suggests that the lock icons indicate the folders are not shared, and recommends adjusting permissions via the Security tab in Properties to resolve the issue. The discussion focuses on permission settings as the cause and solution for restricted file access.
jPaulB

jPaulB

Extraordinary Member
Joined
Dec 4, 2010
Messages
46
Thread Author #1
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
 

Solution
S
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.
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S

Schrodinger92

Member
Joined
Jul 29, 2015
Messages
4
#2
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.
 

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