Error operation can't be completed because the item can't be found

When I try to open documents or any file I get the error code - operation can't be completed because the item can't be found - my download file is doing the same thing and is missing from my favorites.

MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, 2023)

Posted on Apr 21, 2023 2:03 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 23, 2023 12:26 PM

Hi ScrapnJods,


It's possible you may need to change or check your current permissions. Start with the steps below found in the article here: If you can’t move or copy an item on Mac


"If you can’t move or copy a file or folder, you might need to change its permissions settings. You might also need to change permissions settings for the disk, server, or folder where you want to move the item.


  1. On your Mac, select the item, then choose File > Get Info, or press Command-I.
  2. Click the arrow  next to Sharing & Permissions to expand the section.
  3. Click the pop-up menu next to your user name to see the permissions settings.
  4. If you’re not logged in as an administrator, you may need to click the lock  to unlock it, then enter an administrator name and password (or use Touch ID or your Apple Watch).
  5. Change the permissions to either Read & Write or “Read only.” 
  6. If you need to, also change the permissions for the location where you want to put the item."


You can also find helpful information here: Change permissions for files, folders, or disks on Mac as well as here: If you need permission to open an item on Mac


If the issue remains, you can also test while booted to safe mode. If needed find those steps here: How to use safe mode on your Mac


Cheers.







1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 23, 2023 12:26 PM in response to ScrapnJods

Hi ScrapnJods,


It's possible you may need to change or check your current permissions. Start with the steps below found in the article here: If you can’t move or copy an item on Mac


"If you can’t move or copy a file or folder, you might need to change its permissions settings. You might also need to change permissions settings for the disk, server, or folder where you want to move the item.


  1. On your Mac, select the item, then choose File > Get Info, or press Command-I.
  2. Click the arrow  next to Sharing & Permissions to expand the section.
  3. Click the pop-up menu next to your user name to see the permissions settings.
  4. If you’re not logged in as an administrator, you may need to click the lock  to unlock it, then enter an administrator name and password (or use Touch ID or your Apple Watch).
  5. Change the permissions to either Read & Write or “Read only.” 
  6. If you need to, also change the permissions for the location where you want to put the item."


You can also find helpful information here: Change permissions for files, folders, or disks on Mac as well as here: If you need permission to open an item on Mac


If the issue remains, you can also test while booted to safe mode. If needed find those steps here: How to use safe mode on your Mac


Cheers.







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Error operation can't be completed because the item can't be found

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