Undeleteable file

[philentropy]

I downloaded a file that says that it is bigger than it actually is. It won't allow me to delete it. The message reads "The file name, directory name, or volume label syntax is incorrect." The names of the folders look like the script written on Japanese webpages that do not translate into Japanese characters.

[jholland1964]

We need lots more info...name of what you downloaded would at least be nice. Where did you download it from...a web site known to you or something else? Where is this located on the computer? You didn't install "something" did you?

[philentropy]

The name of the files is: ¡àr╣┼P3╖.▄∩ I cannot rename it and it is taking up 49.6GB somehow.

The file was a torrent downloaded from isohunt. I have never had an issue with their torrents.

I definitely did not install anything.

The message reads "The file name, directory name, or volume label syntax is incorrect."

[philentropy]

The file is loaded on an external drive.

The problem may simply be that I need to rename the file so that it may be deleted, but I did try that

[jholland1964]

File sharing is not something we recommend here or generally give assistance doing. This is the risk one takes when doing so...I would recommend that you go through your computer with a "fine tooth comb" since this file is an unknown there is a very good chance there are many others also that can really wreak havoc on the computer and data you may have on it. You also run a very good risk for trojans, keyloggers, viruses, and just about any other nasty item available out there today.

I definitely did not install anything.

You obiviously must have, whether you knew it or not did install something. 46.6GB is huge! Have no idea what size drive you have but first thing you have to do is get that external drive off the computer. This could very well compromise the computer itself. Since you don't know what it is you don't want to give it a chance to transfer itself to the computer hard drive too.

[pheonix73]

I totally agree with Judy.Once you choose to download from unrestricted sites you open yourself up to a world of trouble.I am curious as to how long it took to download this particular file?If it is like anything I have seen in the past,it could be a multiplier trojan,or a self-extracting replicator program.In the days of Napster there were a few of these floating around,but I have not heard or seen of one in many years.Take all and any advice you get from here to heart and possibly reformat that external drive as a precaution.

[theMediaman]

Try installing Japanese character support in Windows.
http://newton.uor.edu/Departments&Pr...lation_XP.html

I've had to run Japanese software demo's, and the only way they work properly is to install the Japanese character support and, in some cases, switch the OS to Japanese mode.

It won't change any existing filenames, but should allow you to access unusual files like the one you described. Remember to switch back after you've deleted the file.