Why do I get requests for deleting shortcuts?
Why your computer is sending requests to delete shortcuts and how to prevent it from happening.
Table of Contents
When users attempt to delete specific desktop shortcuts, UAC prompts may appear. This occurs because these shortcuts are located in the C:\Users\Public\Public Desktop folder. By default, this folder grants the "Interactive" user Read & Execute/List/Read NTFS permissions but lacks 'Modify' or 'Write' permissions. This limitation prevents standard users from making changes to the public desktop, as it could impact all users on the computer.
The UAC prompt that arises is tied to the windows.storage.dll, responsible for file operations, and subject to NTFS permissions. Unfortunately, UAC doesn't specify the exact operation it's attempting, only that windows.storage.dll requires elevated privileges.
Resolution - Modifying NTFS Permissions
To enable users to delete these desktop items, follow these steps to adjust the NTFS permissions for the folder:
- Enter technician mode on the relevant machine.
- Right-click the C:\Users\Public\Public Desktop\ folder, then select "Properties."
- Navigate to the "Security" tab and click "Edit."
- When the UAC prompt appears, elevate it using either Admin or User elevation.
- Select the "Interactive" user and check the "Modify" and "Write" permissions under the 'Allow' column.
- Confirm the changes by clicking "OK" or "Apply."
By following these steps, users will gain the necessary permissions to delete items from the public desktop without encountering UAC prompts.