Officerambo: An unexpected error is keeping you from copying the file [FIX]

Monday, September 7, 2020

An unexpected error is keeping you from copying the file [FIX]

by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

Troubleshooting Expert

Something is keeping you from copying a file in the Windows system surroundings and this error is annoying, to say the least.
If you're unable to copy-paste a file or a folder in Windows 10, follow our list of solutions below.
If you have any other issues, you will most likely find a solution in our Tech Troubleshooting section.
Our Windows 10 Hub is the most comprehensive collection of articles you will ever find on this popular OS.

How to fix an unexpected error is keeping you from copying the file

There are books written about troubleshooting Windows 10 issues. However, there are rare and peculiar errors that can make usage as a nerve-wracking experience.

One of those error comes in many variations with the same result: something keeps you from copying the file in the Windows system surroundings.

In order to address this, we enlisted a few solutions. So if you’re unable to copy-paste a file or a folder in Windows 10, make sure to gradually progress through the list.

How do I fix the file copying unexpected error?

Scan for malware
Use a third-party archive utility
Make sure that the file format is supported
Scan for HDD errors
Make sure you have the required permission
Use Unlocker
Run SFC and DISM

1. Scan for malware

Windows Defender is a very good Windows 10 built-in tool but it doesn’t rival a professional tool like BitDefender Antivirus PLUS.

We have strong reasons to recommend this software as it currently protects more than 500 million systems worldwide.

If this error is caused by malware infection, BitDefender Antivirus PLUS will get rid of it faster than saying perfect protection.

And after you get rid of this error, you’re left with the best anti-phishing, anti-fraud, advanced threat defense, and web attack prevention solution that will leave no mark on your computer performance.

Bitdefender Antivirus PLUS

Forget about any file copying unexpected errors because Bitdefender will leave your computer clean as a whistle!

2. Use a third-party archive utility

Now, even though File Explorer allows users to access certain archived/zipped files, it’s still a niche where third-party archivers are a better choice.

If an archived file is encrypted, Windows-own File Explorer will have a hard time recognizing it and it won’t be able to copy it from a location A to a location B.

What you’ll need to do is extract the individual files from the archive and copy them to the desired location afterward.

There are few tools for the job, but the best is by far WinZip. After you download and install this excellent tool, unarchiving the file is just 2 clicks away.

Right-click on the compressed file, highlight WinZip from the drop-down menu and click on Unzip to the current folder or you can specify a target.

WinZip

WinZip will help you solve this copying file problem in no time. It's the best archiving tool on the market afterall!

3. Make sure that the file format is supported

Firstly, even though Windows shell supports an abundance of different file formats, it can have a hard time with the cross-system files which come from Linux.

So, one thing to take into consideration is double-checking the file extensions.

If you‘re, say copying a folder which holds, among others, a non-NTFS file, the system won’t be able to recognize it. Thus, the error in the process will occur.

What you can do is, in case you have a dual–boot option, to transfer the file within the Linux system and then access and copy the file within the Windows shell.

4. Scan for HDD errors

Right-click Start and open Command Prompt (Admin).
In the command-line, type the following line and press Enter:
1. chkdsk /f C:
After the HDD is scanned for errors, restart your PC.

Looking for file archivers? Here are the best options!

5. Make sure you have the required permission

Navigate to the affected file or folder, right-click on it and open Properties.
Choose the Security tab and then click Advanced.
Under Owner, click Change.
When a new dialog box pop-ups, click Advanced.
Click Find now and select your Microsoft account from the bottom list.
Confirm changes and try moving/copying file or folder again.

6. Run SFC and DISM

How can I run SFC scan?

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
In the command line, type sfc/ scannow and press Enter.
Wait until the procedure ends.

Note: If you still find this too complicated, read this complete guide on how to use System File Checker.

How can I run DISM?

1. Open Command Prompt with administrative permissions.
2. In the command line, type the following commands and press Enter after each:
  - DISM /online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  - DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
3. Let the procedure finalize (it can take some time) and look for changes.

That should do it. In case the error persists, we recommend Recovery options or the clean reinstallation.

Also, make sure to post your questions or alternative solutions in the comments section below. We’ll be glad to hear from you.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in August 2018 and has been since revamped and updated in September 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.

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