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Unauthorized changes blocked: 3 ways to remove these notifications

3 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Some users might spot “Unauthorized changes blocked” notifications at the bottom right corner of theWindows 10desktop. Those notifications inform users thatWindowsDefender’sControlled FolderAccess has blocked anappmodifying a folder.

So, the notifications appear when Controlled Folder Access is turned on.

Although Controlled Folder Access prevents unauthorized folder changes from unwanted programs (i.e. virus), it might also block some validappsmodifying folders.

One user stated: “Suddenly, I can no longer download photos from my SD card using the port on my laptop and my Photoshop Elements 15. I get the following messages: ‘Unauthorized changes blocked.’”

This is how users can turn off Controlled Folder Access to remove the “Unauthorized changes blocked” notifications.

How do I turn off Controlled Folder Access alerts?

How do I turn off Controlled Folder Access alerts?

1. Turn Off Controlled Folder Access via Windows Defender

— RELATED:Microsoft adds direct KB links in Windows 10 error notifications

2. Turn Off Controlled Folder Access With PowerShell

3. Permit Apps Through Controlled Folder Access

Users can also permit specificappsthrough Controlled Folder Access. That will ensure the “Unauthorized changes blocked” notification doesn’t appear for trustedsoftware. This is how users can allowappsthrough Controlled Folder Access.

So, removing “Unauthorized changes blocked” notifications inWindows 10is straightforward and doesn’t require any registry hacks. Remember that Controlled Folder Access can also block unauthorized folder access from suspiciousapps.

Therefore, it might be better to keep CFA on and add software exclusions to it.

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More about the topics:Windows 10 Guides

Matthew Adams

Windows Hardware Expert

Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.

He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.

In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.

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Matthew Adams

Windows Hardware Expert

He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.