shared folder (unknown file)

Question

this is under my public folder but for some reason this pops up. i am unsure what this file is. since i am administrator of the device. i had to approve windows to allow me into the file and when i opened it to try and view what it was this is what i got. i dont believe it belongs to anyone of us because the the file should say the location of it is and it didnt specify either user on desktop. it states users so i dont know if that was a file downloaded from another device or what exactly
any suggestions 

Answer 1

Most likely, that is not a media file.

1

Right click the file, then select Open With - Notepad.

Please provide a screenshot of the resulting Notepad window.

2

Right click the file and select Properties.

Please provide a screenshot of the General tab on the resulting Properties dialog box.

Answer 2

The dialog in the screenshot is from Windows Media Player Legacy and only indicates that the file cannot be played because its format or codec is not supported. It does not identify the file as malicious or as belonging to a particular user.

For a shared or public folder item that shows up unexpectedly:

1. Check the file’s properties in File Explorer:
   • Right‑click the file → Properties → General tab to see its full name, type, and exact path.
   • On the Details tab, look for additional metadata (title, origin, etc.).
2. Review who has access and where it resides:
   • Confirm the path under Location in Properties to verify it is under C:\Users\Public (or another shared path) and not a user’s private profile.
3. Scan the file for malware:
   • Right‑click the file → choose the Microsoft Defender scan option to ensure it is safe.
4. If the file is not needed:
   • Move it out of the Public folder or delete it (if unsure, back it up first). As administrator, ensure no important application is using it before removal.

The fact that Windows requested administrator approval simply reflects that the file is in a protected location or has restricted permissions; it does not by itself indicate a problem.

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References:

• What to do when a malicious file is found in SharePoint Online, OneDrive, or Microsoft Teams