Could not find this item. This is no longer located in [Path]. Verify the item’s location and try again.

Problem

When you try to delete a file or folder, you get the following error:

“Could not find this item.

This is no longer located in C:\Example. Verify the item’s location and try again.”

Cause

The file or folder contains invalid characters. This can sometimes happen when downloading files from another operating system.

Solution

1. Go to the folder where the file or folder is located.
2. Click on a blank space on the address bar. This will select the full path “e.g. C:\Example”.
3. Press Ctrl+C to copy the path.
4. Press the Windows key + R.
5. Type cmd and press Enter.
6. If your file is on your Windows drive (usually C:\) then go to the next step. Otherwise, type in the drive letter (e.g. D:\).
7. Type
   cd "C:\Example"
   and press Enter
   (Change the text in the quotes to your path name)
8. Type
   dir /x
9. This will show all the files and folders with their 8.3 name (also known as DOS name or short name).
   For example, BadFile.doc and BadFolder may show up as BADFIL~1.DOC and BADFOL~1
10. Delete the file using the following command (using your own filenames):
    • For files:
      del /f /q BADFIL~1.DOC
    • For folders:
      rd /q BADFOL~1.DOC
    • or alternatively rename it:
      ren BADFIL~1.DOC GoodFile.doc