Can't move certain files in Finder

Question

Can't move certain files in Finder

Hello everyone,

I am a brand new Mac user currently using a new MacBook Pro (13) updated to the most recent version of Catalina. I am having a weird problem with Finder. I can't move certain files to other folders or the trash. I can delete them by right clicking but if I try to drag them somewhere they won't move. Other files can be moved fine.

I have tried to restart Finder, restart the computer, deleted the preference files for the mouse/trackpad (found a list in an OSXTips post). I thought maybe it was a permissions issue so when I check the file using get info it says that I have both read and write permissions. And again I can just right click and delete the file but it won't let me move it anywhere.

Just wondered if there was something else to try before I just reformat the computer and start over.

Thanks,

J

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 10.15

Posted on Jul 13, 2020 4:58 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

jmanderson1010 Author

Level 1

5 points

Jul 14, 2020 5:12 AM in response to jmanderson1010

This is just an update for anyone looking to solve this issue. After scouring the internet for a few days I came across a post suggesting it is a trackpad setting. I messed around with the settings and now don't seem to have a problem.

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Answer 2

a brody

Level 10

83,047 points

Jul 13, 2020 5:48 AM in response to jmanderson1010

There are files in certain folders that are read only access. This means they are restricted for your own security.

My tip*

http://www.macmaps.com/safetodeleteormove.html

covers this long standing issue from the migration to Mac OS X from 2001.

*Links to my pages may give me compensation.

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Answer 3

Jul 13, 2020 6:00 AM in response to a brody

First of all thanks for your help. I totally get what you are saying about system files. But for example I can't do anything with a pdf file that is a newsletter from my kid's school. I can't move it to trash or documents. I can check permission (which I have read/write). I can even right click and delete it. I just can't move it.

Thanks again,

J

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Can't move certain files in Finder

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