Rogue folders in SSD root folders and files after copying files (e.g. H:\~!- and e.g. H:\!-SCPGT01.DOC)

Mel P 0 Reputation points
2026-10-14T18:48:51.8966667+00:00

Hello - Windows 11 - just had a session copying files from memory sticks to a USB attached drive as a precursor to wiping old stuff from the memory sticks. The idea was to get several years of files into 1 place and release the memory sticks which were getting cluttered!

PC didn't like copying some of larger files from USB memory stick to USB attached SSD and the computer "hung". Found went OK copying from memory stick to PC SSD then copying PC SSD - USB attached SSD.

HOWEVER since this exercise I keep getting the same "rogue files" appear in each PC SSD root folder.

I delete these files and folders and they reappear?? HELP please!

Very annoying, Mel

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage
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  1. Igor Leyko 112.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-14T22:50:03.4933333+00:00

    I do not think this is a good behavior of antivirus program.

    Please check if the problem exists during clean boot and in the safe mode.

    https://support.microsoft.com/topic/how-to-perform-a-clean-boot-in-windows-da2f9573-6eec-00ad-2f8a-a97a1807f3dd

    https://support.microsoft.com/windows/start-your-pc-in-safe-mode-in-windows-10-92c27cff-db89-8644-1ce4-b3e5e56fe234

    Tell the result.

    BTW, please read : https://robert.ocallahan.org/2017/01/disable-your-antivirus-software-except.html

    Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

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  2. Igor Leyko 112.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-14T20:45:27.5+00:00

    Do you mean that all four drives you connect using the single USB adapter? If yes, this is adapter's problem likely.

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  3. Igor Leyko 112.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-14T19:26:32.5+00:00

    There may be logical errors in file structure.

    Please run command prompt as administrator, run chkdsk H: command and show the result.

    Check this SSD using manufacturer's tool.

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