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need to (un)encrypt a usb flash drive

Anonymous
2018-02-11T18:42:31+00:00

somehow a flash drive that i use to transfer files from tablet to the drive has a write protection on it and i cant even format or access folders.  all the folders names are replaced with random letters, symbols. apps on my tablet have access to external devices that can essentially read and even replace files at their own free will, which needs to be stopped. luckily, all the files on the usb arent important, but all i want to do is format it. and yes, ive already ran CMD prompt without success. still searching for ways to decrypt it. last resort, discard it

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Files, folders, and storage

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  1. Anonymous
    2018-02-11T22:47:01+00:00

    Do you think your flash drive might be compromised by malware?

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  2. Anonymous
    2018-02-11T21:15:45+00:00

    Hi Malcolm,

    For clarification regarding formatting your USB flash drive, when you say "I've already ran CMD prompt", did you run it under safe mode? If not, we suggest that you follow the steps below:

    1. Shutdown your PC.
    2. Insert your USB Memory Stick into your laptop or Computer.
    3. Turn on laptop, and then immediately start pressing F8.
    4. Select Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
    5. After loading files, if your USB Memory Stick drive letter is G (for example), then write as:

    C:\windows\system32>G:, and press Enter.

    G:>format G:, and press Enter. 6. Press Y, and press Enter. 7. Now a full format will start which remove write protection from USB Memory Stick.

    We look forward to your response.

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