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How to remove an unknown folder "destroy me" on desktop

Roger Wilson 0 Reputation points
2025-12-04T11:11:33.1433333+00:00

Hi have found an unknown folder on my desktop (Windows 11 Pro) that is labelled destroy me.

Not recognising this folder

I have run several anti-virus and malware scans and these found nothing. I then checked its properties by right clicking before opening or attempting to delete it.

Says that file can not be accessed, as has either been moved or deleted...

When I attempt to delete the folder on the desktop, I also get the same message again saying, this file has either been moved or deleted..

Have also done a system search using the "run" box which also returns nothing..

My question is, as this mystery folder cannot be found to access and remove it how do I remove it please

Roger

Microsoft Security | Microsoft Defender | Other
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-04T11:12:52.7866667+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    To remove the unknown folder labeled "destroy me" from your desktop, you can try the following steps:

    1. Check if the folder is in use: Sometimes, a folder cannot be deleted because it is being used by a process. You can use tools like Process Explorer to check if any processes are using the folder. Close any applications that might be accessing it.
    2. Use Command Prompt: If the folder cannot be accessed through the graphical interface, you can try deleting it using Command Prompt:
      • Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
      • Type the following command and press Enter: 
             rmdir /s /q "C:\Users\YourUsername\Desktop\destroy me"
      • Replace YourUsername with your actual Windows username.
    3. Check for file system corruption: If the folder still cannot be deleted, it might be due to file system corruption. You can run the Check Disk utility:
      • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
      • Type the following command and press Enter: 
             chkdsk /f C:
      • This will check the C: drive for errors and fix them. You may need to restart your computer.
    4. Use Safe Mode: Booting into Safe Mode can sometimes allow you to delete files that are otherwise locked. Restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + F8) during startup to access the boot options, then select Safe Mode. Once in Safe Mode, try deleting the folder again.
    5. Third-party tools: If none of the above methods work, you can use third-party file deletion tools like Unlocker or FileAssassin, which can help delete stubborn files and folders.

    If you still encounter issues, it may be worth checking for any underlying system issues or seeking further assistance from Microsoft support.

    References:

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  2. Roger Wilson 0 Reputation points
    2025-12-04T11:27:29.8433333+00:00

    The file/folder is not in use as cannot access it.

    I have tried Safe Mode with no joy with nothing showing and 3rd party program can see this folder but cannot access it as it has either been moved or deleted. Contact your IT department..

    Will try the command prompt next which may take some time as not proficient with this method, I just a switch on and use user.

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