Windows ME

Whenever I try to delete a file, I receive a message "Cannot delete ___. Access is denied. The source file may be in use."

This happens no matter what file I try to delete. What could be using every file on the C drive? How do I regain access to these files? I have restarted the computer several times without success. System restore and rebooting in safe mode also are ineffective.

For several years, I have deleted files daily, and they always went to the recycle bin, as expected. Now, the recycle bin also is empty, though I know there were some files in the recycle bin.

RichardPM,

Are you sharing your C: drive? If you are, check both the sharing and security permissions.

Otherwise, I don't know why attempts to delete any file/folder would generate this error.

Have you tried to rename a file?
Have you tried to delete a newly created file?
Have you tired to delete a folder?
Is your hard drive full?

J_