File or Directory Is Corrupted and Unreadable Fixes

Sudden error messages in Windows are frustrating. Errors are even more stressful when they prevent access to important data. 

The following error is one of the most common examples: 

X:\ is not accessible. The file or directory is corrupted and unreadable. 

Known as Error 0x80070570, the message indicates file corruption or missing data in the system.

Thankfully, there are several options for fixing corrupted files or directories.

What You Need To Know: 

• Error 0x80070570 does not always mean your data is gone. Instead, it usually signals that Windows cannot read it. 
• File corruption can occur on otherwise healthy drives, so hardware failure is not certain.
• DIY attempts to fix corrupted files could cause permanent data loss. You can request help for a free consultation with an expert if data recovery is your top priority.   

What Does “File or Directory Is Corrupted and Unreadable” Mean?

A file or directory that is corrupted and unreadable will not open because Windows cannot access data on the device.  

This error often points to a problem with the file system rather than the underlying data. 

File systems are structures that organize data on a storage device. The hierarchical structure helps Windows locate data and save new files to disks or memory cells. A damaged file system interferes with the routine task. It can occur on an internal drive, an external hard drive, a USB flash drive, or an SD card.

Like a page with smeared ink, the data still exists, but it is not currently readable.

Common causes of Error 0x80070570 include physical damage, an interrupted file transfer or write process, corrupt metadata, malware, and faulty memory.

How To Fix Error 0x80070570: The File or Directory Is Corrupted and Unreadable

The potential solutions listed below can fix corrupted files or directories and recover lost data. 

However, some of these repairs involve writing data to the drive. Doing so could reduce the odds of recovering lost data later. 

If the affected drive contains critical files, then consult a certified data recovery service before attempting to address the corruption yourself. Our specialists can provide a free quote and help explore all of your options.       

Before You Begin: Change File Location

A quick test can reveal the extent of the problem in just a few seconds.

Try moving the file or folder to another location, such as your desktop or an external hard drive.

To change file location: 

1. Right-click the desired file or folder.
2. Select Copy.
3. Open a different drive or folder.
4. Select Paste.
5. Double-click the file to open it.  

If the file copies and opens in the other location, the error is likely a pathing or permission issue rather than corruption. If that data stalls, it can cause read errors, such as 0x80070570.

Method 1: Reboot Your Computer

A simple restart could resolve minor corruption or glitches. Windows holds frequently used data and system files in memory. If that data stalls, it can cause read errors like 0x80070570.

Close all open files and apps before rebooting your PC.

If the error still occurs, proceed to the next step. 

Editor’s Note: Choose Restart and not Shut Down. Your computer might have Fast Startup enabled. This setting may not clear your active memory.    

Method 2: Scan for Viruses

Some malware variants target the file system to alter directories or encrypt data. Therefore, it is wise to rule out malicious software before looking into hardware failure. 

Make sure your antivirus software is up to date. The tool might not detect the latest threats if it is outdated.   

To run a scan in Windows: 

1. Type Windows Security in the search box. 
2. Open the Virus & Threat Protection options.
3. Select Full Scan.
4. Click Scan Now. 

You can also use a third-party tool to fully scan the system for a virus.

Restart your computer if Windows Security finds and removes a threat.  

If you suspect that malware is evading detection, you can try scanning again in Safe Mode. Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced Startup > Restart Now. 

Then, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Press 4 or F4 for Safe Mode. Press 5 or F5 to launch Safe Mode with Networking for an internet connection.  

Method 3: Use System File Checker (SFC)

System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows tool to address instability. It scans system files for corruption and replaces damaged data with a clean version. This method is especially useful if the error occurs while working in a Windows app. 

To run an SFC scan: 

1. Type Command Prompt in the search bar.

2. Right-click the result and select Run as administrator.
3. Type sfc /scannow in the interface.

Once complete, SFC will report the status of system files. 

Method 4: Run CHKDSK

Editor’s Note: Running CHKDSK can lead to permanent data loss due to how the tool handles file corruption. Speak with a professional to discuss SSD or hard drive recovery if retrieving data is essential. Our standard service includes a No Data, No Recovery Fee guarantee.

CHKDSK is a Windows utility that attempts to repair file system errors. Unlike SFC, CHKDSK scans the source drive instead of the system, making it a more targeted fix in most cases. However, it can leave data behind in inaccessible sectors, so proceed with caution if you do not have a recent backup.

To run CHKDSK: 

1. Enter Command Prompt in the Windows search bar.
2. Right-click the result and choose Run as administrator.
3. Type chkdsk X: /f /r to fix file system errors and locate bad sectors.

Editor’s Note: Replace X: in the example above with the assigned drive letter of the affected storage device. 

If CHKDSK reports that it could not repair sectors, then the drive likely has physical damage. Power down the device and contact us or get a free quote online if you need to recover important data.    

Method 5: Check Your RAM

If you encounter Error 0x80070570 across multiple drives, then your random-access memory (RAM) could be the issue. 

RAM often stores temporary data as it is being written to the drive. Faulty RAM can corrupt this data and suggest drive failure, even though the problem lies elsewhere.

To run Windows Memory Diagnostic: 

1. Close all apps and save any files. 
2. Press the Windows key and R together to open the dialog box.
3. Type mdsched.exe and hit Enter. 

Windows will reboot and run a memory test. Wait for the process to finish.

To view the results of the diagnostic: 

1. Type Event Viewer in the Windows search box on the taskbar.

2. Click Windows Logs in the left sidebar.
3. Choose System in the menu.
4. Click Filter Current Log in the Actions panel.
5. Choose MemoryDiagnostics-Results in the Event sources dropdown.

The entry will show the test’s outcome. You can try carefully reseating your RAM sticks on a desktop in the event of a problem. It might not be possible on a laptop because the modules are often soldered right to the board.

Method 6: Reinstall Windows

If you recently installed a corrupt version of Windows, you may need to start from scratch with a clean copy.

Editor’s Note: We recommend backing your local data before wiping Windows. Even saving corrupted files allows for data recovery if needed. 

To reinstall Windows: 

1. Open Settings, then select System, and go to Recovery.
2. Click the Reset PC button under Recovery options.
3. Choose Keep my files instead of Remove everything. 
4. Follow the on-screen instructions. 

Your computer will restart several times throughout the installation. 

You can perform a clean install that removes all data if keeping personal files does not correct the error.    

Method 7: Format Your Drive

If nothing else works, then formatting the drive is the last resort. 

Formatting erases all data from the drive and rebuilds the file system. The method is suitable for secondary storage and external devices, but does not apply to your system drive.

This step permanently deletes data stored on the device. You cannot recover deleted data from a solid-state drive (SSD) because of the TRIM command. It would require data recovery for a hard disk drive (HDD). Only format the drive if you are certain that you do not need its contents.

Check out our step-by-step guide on how to format your hard drive in Disk Management on Windows.           

When Should You Seek Professional Assistance?

It depends on your primary concern.

People who need to recover data from their hard drive should avoid writing data to the device. Further use could also lead to more severe file corruption and complicate data loss. Disks with physical damage will need hard drive repair. Shutting down the drive and contacting professional data recovery services is the best chance to successfully restore files.

If returning the drive to a functional state is the greatest concern, then formatting the device is a viable solution. The goal justifies the downsides and risks of more invasive methods.     

Corrupted Hard Drive Recovery

The experts at Secure Data Recovery have decades of experience and expertise across all storage devices, failure modes, and file types.

Our engineers use advanced hardware and software to repair corrupted files and damaged directories. We offer diagnostics at no cost, free quotes, and a No Data, No Recovery Fee guarantee to our customers. Trust the service with a streamlined process and flexible service options for internal and external drive recovery. 

Call 800-388-1266 or request a free quote by filling out a short form to start a case today.     

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Error 0x80070570 in Windows?

Several issues can trigger Error 0x80070570 in Windows. 

Common reasons the file or directory is corrupted and unreadable include: 

• Bad Sectors: Physical defects on HDD platters or SSD blocks can cause corruption. 
• Improper Ejection or Shutdown: Interrupting a file transfer or an in-progress write operation might corrupt data. 
• Logical Errors: The Master File Table (MFT), a crucial index of metadata, can become damaged over time, leaving Windows without a consistent map.   
• Malware Infection: Some viruses encrypt data or delete files to lock users out of their devices.  
• Faulty RAM: Degraded memory modules could corrupt data as it is being committed to the drive. 
• Corrupt Windows Version: Installation media may have incorrectly written files, leading to system errors.    

Knowing the most likely causes can inform the troubleshooting process.

How do I fix corrupted files or unreadable directories?

Sometimes, Error 0x80070570 resolves with quick fixes, such as moving locations, rebooting, or removing a virus from the PC. Potential solutions like CHKDSK are more complex and risk making matters even worse. Cases involving physical damage to the storage medium often demand skilled technicians and custom tools and techniques. Formatting a drive with extensive logical damage is an option when data loss is not a factor. 

The best method to fix files or directories that are corrupt and unreadable depends on your specific situation.     

How do I delete files affected by Error Code 0x80070570?

Windows struggles to delete files for the same reason it cannot read them. It lacks a clear record of the file. As a result, Windows will block deletion requests. 

You can attempt to bypass the Recycle Bin by selecting the file and pressing the Shift and Delete keys together. If the shortcut fails, try erasing the data in Safe Mode or using a third-party tool like IObit Unlocker.

It is important to note that Error 0x80070570 could signal an underlying issue with the drive. If it appears, we suggest focusing your attention on preserving all original data instead of cleaning up the device.       

What are some tips to prevent a file or directory from becoming corrupt and unreadable?

Here is a checklist to safeguard against Error 0x80070570: 

1. Proper Ejection: Disconnect the external drive by right-clicking the device in the system tray, selecting Eject, and waiting for a notification. 
2. Regular Shutdowns: Turn off your computer normally to avoid write errors and clear RAM.
3. Cautious Approach: Handle an external device with care to minimize the likelihood of physical damage.
4. Updated Software: Run the latest version of Windows and your antivirus program to reduce the risk of file corruption.

Monitor Hardware: Routinely check your storage device and other components to detect failures early.