Can't remove SharePoint access for specific user from folder

Question

I want to remove this external user's access from a certain folder, but when I go to do so, nothing changes - the user remains on the shared list. This is the only user I've experienced this with, so I don't know why this would be happening. My screenshots are failing to upload, but I will describe the steps below.

Documents Tab > Manage Access on folder > click "x" next to user's name > Remove access > nothing happens

Also

Documents Tab > Manage Access on folder > more options next to link > click "x" next to user's name > Remove > Apply > nothing happens

Answer 1

Dear Nathan,

From your description, it seems that you can't remove only one external user's unique permission from the specific folder like the following in your environment.

If yes, here are some ways for you to try and see the result in your environment.

1. Remove all unique permission levels from the folder by clicking on the folder>Manage access>Advanced>click on Delete unique permissions and try whether all external users including the affected user can be removed from the folder. If yes, share the folder with the other external users you don't want to remove again to see if it works in your environment.

2. Use the Rest API call with Power Automate to see if you can remove all external users including the affected external user from the folder and then re-share the folder with the other external users you don't want to remove again to see if it works in your environment.

The flow can be the following.

Method: POST

Uri: _api/web/lists/getbytitle('Library001')/items('outputs('Get_folder_metadata')?['body/ItemId']')/ResetRoleInheritance()

Welcome to share any updates and let us know the outcome at your convenience if you need further help on this issue.

Thanks for your effort and time!

Sincerely,

Cliff | Microsoft Community Moderator

Answer 2

Thanks Cliff - I was trying to see if there was something I wasn't aware of, as I was trying to not have to reshare the folder with those that would also lose access. But your suggestions worked, I'll just have to reshare.

Answer 3

Dear Nathan,

Thanks for your updates and kindness.

I'm glad to hear that the suggestion above works in your environment.

Welcome to post a new thread at your convenience if you encounter any issues in your environment.

Thanks for your effort and time!

Sincerely,

Cliff | Microsoft Community Moderator