Q: I am trying to open a usb, but my computer wants me to format it? doing this gets rid of all my information does anyone know how i can open it and view the files without having to format it. Please i would really appreciate some help willing to choose a best answer if you can find a solution. Note to Kiran M I never use "safely remove hardware" could this be why it has happened? I've scanned it and there is no viruses....i guess i'll have to format, and this time i will keep backups. Thanks for your help anyway.
A: Most probably: 1) There is a virus OR 2) The flash drive is corrupted somewhat. Formatting would remove both. There is a virus that actually makes you format it for ever and I would suggest that you scan the flash drive with a very good upto date antivirus. If it finds no faults, then I think you may have to format it. You could also try opening it in a mac computer if possible, though I'm not sure how helpful that would be. PS: In the future keep at least 2 backups-not just one. :)