Virtual Machine: Intermittent 'Access is Denied' Error During SMB/UNC File Move Operations

Problem description

I am experiencing intermittent failures when attempting to move files between SMB/UNC paths on Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition virtual machines. The error message states 'Access is Denied', and no recent configuration changes, patches, or Windows updates have been made prior to the issue's onset. The problem occurs across multiple server environments, some without recent Windows updates, and seems to follow a pattern but without a clearly identifiable cause.

Environment

Affected service: Virtual Machine running Windows; Resource type: Windows Server 2022 Datacenter Azure Edition; Region: Not specified in case information; Access method: SMB file access over UNC paths; Operation involved: Command-line file move using MOVE command.

What I've already tried

I have compared behavior across different file-operation methods and path types, verifying SMB connectivity and file permissions. I confirmed no issues were found with SMB sessions or Defender alerts. I tested file moves within the same share, between different shares, and using local disk paths, observing that moves succeed in some scenarios and fail intermittently in others. I also verified that the issue was seen across multiple environments and systems with no recent updates or configuration changes. Additionally, I reviewed permissions and ACLs, and tested various move operations with newly created files, noting the pattern of failure only when both source and destination are accessed via UNC paths.

Current status

Currently, the issue persists intermittently, mainly affecting MOVE operations over UNC paths with 'Access is Denied' errors. I am seeking guidance to understand the root cause, whether permissions or SMB behavior, and to identify potential solutions or further diagnostic steps to resolve this problem.