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How to Fix Finder Error Code -36 (Can't Read/Write Data)

Simple Steps to Fix the Problem

1. Restart Your Mac

  • Click  > Restart
Why? Clears temporary system glitches that may cause file access issues.

2. Check Disk Space

  • Click  > About This Mac > Storage
  • Ensure you have at least 10GB free space
Why? Low disk space can prevent file operations.

3. Repair Disk Permissions

  • Open Disk Utility (Applications > Utilities)
  • Select your startup disk > Click First Aid > Run
Why? Fixes incorrect file permissions causing access errors.

4. Try Alternative File Access

  • Right-click the problematic file > Open With > Choose another app
Why? Sometimes Finder-specific issues bypass with direct app access.

5. Copy Files via Terminal

  • Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities)
  • Type (replace paths with your actual file locations): cp -v /original/file/path /destination/folder/
Why? Bypasses Finder's file handling which may be corrupted.

6. Check File/Folder Ownership

  • Right-click file/folder > Get Info
  • Under Sharing & Permissions, ensure your user has Read & Write
  • Click paper icon to unlock if needed > Adjust permissions
Why? Incorrect ownership blocks file access.

Advanced Solutions

7. Reset Finder Preferences

  • In Terminal, type: defaults delete com.apple.finder killall Finder
Why? Corrupted Finder preferences may cause error -36.

8. Test in Safe Mode

  • Restart Mac > Hold Shift until login screen
  • Try the file operation in Safe Mode
Why? Isolates software conflicts.

9. Recreate Problematic File

  • If possible, have the source resend/recreate the file
Why? The file itself may be corrupted at the data level.

What Causes Error -36?

  • File system corruption
  • Permission conflicts
  • Damaged Finder preferences
  • Bad sectors on storage drive

Prevention Tips

  • ✔ Regularly run Disk Utility First Aid
  • ✔ Maintain 10-15% free disk space
  • ✔ Use proper ejection for external drives
  • ✔ Avoid force-quitting during file transfers
If the error persists:
  • Try the file operation on another Mac
  • Back up data and reformat the drive
  • Consider professional data recovery for critical files

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