How to Fix USB Shortcut Virus on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide to Remove and Recover Files

USB shortcut virus is a common issue that can affect your USB drives and Windows 11 system. It hides your original files and creates shortcuts instead, making it hard to access your data. This guide will help you remove the virus and recover your files safely.

Removing the USB shortcut virus is important to protect your files and prevent the virus from spreading to other devices. The process involves scanning your device and restoring hidden files step-by-step.

Even if you are new to Windows 11, this guide explains every step clearly and simply. Just follow along carefully to clean your USB drive and recover your data.

By the end, you will know how to remove the virus and keep your USB drive safe from future infections.

Quick Note Before You Start

Make sure your USB drive is connected to your Windows 11 PC properly.
Do not open or run any suspicious files or shortcuts on the infected USB drive.
Have a reliable antivirus program installed or ready for use.
Back up any important files from your USB if possible before starting the cleanup.

Step 1: Show Hidden Files on Your USB Drive

The USB shortcut virus usually hides your real files and replaces them with shortcuts. To see your hidden files, you need to change some settings in Windows 11.

Open File Explorer by clicking the folder icon on your taskbar or pressing Windows + E keys.
Click on the View menu at the top, then select Show > Hidden items. This will allow you to see files that are hidden by the virus.
Go to your USB drive in File Explorer and check if your files appear now.

Showing hidden files is important because the virus hides your data but does not delete it. This step helps you confirm that your files are still there.

Step 2: Use Command Prompt to Remove the Virus

The next step is to use a simple command in Windows Command Prompt to remove the virus attributes from your files.

Press Windows + S to open the search bar, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter. Replace G: with your USB drive letter:
```
attrib -h -r -s /s /d G:*.*
```
This command removes hidden, read-only, and system file attributes from all files and folders on your USB.
Close Command Prompt after the process finishes.

This step helps make your original files visible again by removing the virus-imposed restrictions.

Step 3: Scan and Remove Malware with Windows Security

Windows 11 comes with built-in antivirus protection called Windows Security. Use it to scan your USB drive and remove any viruses safely.

Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
Go to Privacy & Security, then click Windows Security.
Select Virus & threat protection.
Click Scan options and choose Custom scan.
Select your USB drive from the list and start the scan.
Follow any prompts to remove detected threats.

Using Windows Security ensures that your system and USB drive are free from harmful files that may cause future infections.

Step 4: Recover Your Files

After removing the virus, your files should be accessible again. If any files are missing or corrupted, you can try restoring them from backups or using file recovery software.

If you have backups, copy your files back to your USB drive.
Alternatively, use trusted recovery tools like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard to scan and restore lost files.
Always save recovered files to your PC first, then copy them to your USB drive after confirming they are safe.

Recovering files ensures you don’t lose important data after infection.

Alternative Method: Using Third-Party Antivirus Software

If Windows Security doesn’t detect or remove the virus, you can try other reputable antivirus programs such as Avast, Malwarebytes, or Kaspersky. These tools often have better detection rates for USB shortcut viruses.

Download and install your preferred antivirus, run a full system and USB scan, then follow the instructions to quarantine or delete threats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the USB shortcut virus?

The virus often spreads through infected USB drives or downloads. It hides files and creates shortcuts to trick users into clicking malicious programs.

Are my original files lost if I see only shortcuts?

No, the original files are usually hidden, not deleted. Using the steps above, you can unhide and recover them.

Can the shortcut virus harm my computer?

Yes, it can spread malware and compromise your system security. Removing it quickly helps protect your PC.

Is it safe to format the USB drive?

Formatting removes the virus but also deletes all files. Only format if you have backups or cannot recover your data.

How can I prevent the USB shortcut virus in the future?

Use antivirus software, avoid opening unknown files on USB drives, and safely eject your USB devices.

When Nothing Works

If you still cannot remove the USB shortcut virus, consider these final options:

Format the USB drive after backing up any accessible data.
Seek professional data recovery services if files are critical.
Visit Microsoft’s official support site for advanced troubleshooting: https://support.microsoft.com.

Conclusion

Fixing the USB shortcut virus on Windows 11 is straightforward if you follow the steps carefully. Start by showing hidden files, then remove virus attributes using Command Prompt, and scan your system with Windows Security. Recover your files safely and consider using third-party antivirus tools if needed.

Always keep your antivirus updated and practice safe USB usage to prevent future infections. With this guide, you can protect your data and keep your USB drives virus-free.