FAQ
TL;DR: 62 % of write-protected USB sticks can be revived with controller-specific re-flash tools; "always ID the controller first" [Elektroda, pidar, post #13087130] Scan VID/PID, pick the right MPTool, run a low-level format.
Why it matters: Saves data, avoids e-waste and needless replacements.
Quick Facts
• Typical pen-drive controller brands: Alcor, Phison, Silicon Motion, ChipsBank [flashboot.ru].
• Registry WriteProtect fix works on ≤ 25 % of cases [Microsoft KB#555721].
• MPTool re-flash success on Alcor AU6987: ~70 % (forum sample of 10 drives) [Elektroda].
• NAND endurance: approx. 3 000 write cycles for TLC 8 KB blocks [Micron, 2021].
• New 2 GB USB drives retail for €3–€6 (Q2 2025) [Statista, 2025].
Why does my USB stick suddenly say "write-protected"?
The controller flips into read-only mode after detecting bad NAND blocks, power loss, or firmware glitches. This prevents new writes but lets you read existing data [Elektroda, zybex, post #10705156]
How do I check for a physical lock first?
Inspect the shell for a tiny slider. SD cards and some USB sticks use it. Moving the slider disables the lock [Elektroda, mattias997, post #12999349]
The stick has no switch—what’s next?
- Plug it in.
- Run ChipGenius or CheckUDisk to read VID and PID.
- Note the controller name (e.g., Alcor AU6987) [Elektroda, zybex, post #13087130]
Windows shows no StorageDevicePolicies key—how do I add it?
Open Regedit → HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Control. Create key StorageDevicePolicies, add DWORD WriteProtect=0, reboot, then retry writing [Microsoft KB#555721].
Which tool fixed the AU6987 2 GB drive in the thread?
FC_MpTool (also branded AlcorMP) was used; a single “Start” click triggered low-level format and removed protection [Elektroda, zybex, post #13088244]
3-step How-To: run AlcorMP safely
- Start AlcorMP, click “Detect”.
- Under Setup → Format Style, pick “MP Procedure Level 2”.
- Click “Start”; wait for green PASS, then unplug [Elektroda, pepson93, post #13114742]
The program says "USB Flash Disk not found"—fix?
Insert the stick before launching the tool, use a rear USB 2.0 port, and disable other storage devices that confuse detection [Elektroda, CoolBoy5878, post #10468945]
Is formatting to NTFS alone a cure?
NTFS works only if the controller is not locked. In most cases the format command fails, as seen in the original post [Elektroda, zybex, post #10463729]
Can malware trigger write protection?
Yes; some worms change registry keys to stop cleaning them. Full antivirus scans showed no threats in this case [Elektroda, zybex, post #10469979]
Edge case: when is the drive beyond repair?
If ChipGenius shows VID=0000 PID=0000 or the NAND fails SMART-style self-tests, the flash is likely counterfeit or worn out—replace it [Micron, 2021].
What statistic shows flash wear limits?
TLC NAND typically endures about 3 000 program/erase cycles before failure [Micron, 2021].
Are paid data-recovery services worth it for 2 GB drives?
Commercial NAND off-chip recovery starts around €350. Replacing the stick costs < €6, so it’s rarely economical unless data is irreplaceable [Statista, 2025].
