Samsung Galaxy Connect Bug Blocks C Drive on Windows 11 PCs

Microsoft and Samsung have identified a software glitch in the Samsung Galaxy Connect app that is preventing users of certain Windows 11 PCs from accessing their primary C drive, following the installation of recent security updates. The issue, which surfaced in late February, affects specific Samsung Galaxy Book 4 series laptops and desktop models running Windows 11 versions 24H2 or 25H2, rendering devices partially unusable for routine tasks.

Users on impacted systems encounter an "Access denied" error when attempting to open the C drive, the main partition containing the operating system, installed programs, and personal files. This blocks access to stored documents, prevents the launch of common applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Office suite programs, web browsers, system utilities, and Quick Assist, and hinders administrative functions like elevating user privileges or collecting diagnostic logs. In severe cases, affected individuals cannot uninstall updates or perform other maintenance operations due to permission failures. The problem arises during everyday activities and does not require specific triggers beyond normal use.

A joint investigation by Microsoft and...