Remove Shortcut Virus from Pen Drive | Scan & Clean with Windows Defender (Windows 10)

Shortcut Virus is one of the most common USB issues that turns all your files into shortcuts.

If your pen drive shows only shortcut files, don’t worry!
In this guide, you’ll learn how to scan and clean your pen drive using Windows Defender and
recover your original files safely — without using any third-party tools.

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💡 Introduction

The shortcut virus is a malware that hides your real files and replaces them with fake shortcuts.
These shortcuts often lead to malicious scripts or corrupted files.
Luckily, Windows Defender Antivirus, available in Windows 10 and 11, can remove this virus completely.
You can fix your pen drive in just a few minutes using built-in tools.

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🔹 Symptoms of Shortcut Virus

If your pen drive is infected, you’ll notice:

• All files/folders turned into shortcuts

• “Application not found” error appears when you open a shortcut

• File size looks unusually small

• Hidden files exist when “Show Hidden Items” is enabled

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🔹 Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Shortcut Virus

🧩 Step 1: Show Hidden Files

1. Open File Explorer

2. Click View → Show → Hidden Items

3. You’ll now see hidden folders and your real files

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🧩 Step 2: Scan Pen Drive with Windows Defender

1. Insert your USB Drive

2. Go to Start → Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security

3. Open Virus & Threat Protection

4. Click Scan Options

5. Choose Custom Scan → Select your USB drive

6. Click Scan Now

7. Wait for the scan to complete — Defender will automatically remove the virus

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🧩 Step 3: Delete Shortcut Files Manually

1. Open your USB Drive

2. Delete all files with the .lnk extension (these are shortcuts)

3. Locate your hidden folders and copy your original files to a safe location

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🧩 Step 4: Use CMD to Unhide Files (Recommended)

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter

2. Run this command:

   attrib -h -r -s /s /d E:\*.*
   

   (Replace E: with your pen drive letter)

3. Press Enter — all original files will become visible again

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🔹 How to Prevent Future Infections

• Always Eject your pen drive safely before removing it

• Avoid using USB drives on infected or unknown computers

• Keep Windows Defender updated

• Turn off AutoRun for removable drives

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🔹 Why Use Windows Defender?

✅ Built-in antivirus — no need for third-party software
✅ Real-time protection against malware and shortcut viruses
✅ Frequently updated by Microsoft
✅ 100% free and safe to use

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💬 Frequently Asked Questions (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Are my files deleted by the shortcut virus?
No, your files are just hidden — you can recover them using CMD or antivirus scan.

Q2. Can Windows Defender remove the shortcut virus completely?
Yes, if your Windows is up to date, Defender can remove it safely.

Q3. Do I need to format my pen drive?
Only if the virus keeps returning — but take a backup before formatting.

Q4. Does this work on Windows 11?
Yes, the same steps apply to both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

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Complete Video Guide/Tutorial

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