A message appears stating----"Windows cannot access the specified device, path or file. You may not have the appropriate permission." This message appears for all programs. I am unable to open anything in the Control PANEL. Can anyone please help. Thanks.
Need a bit more info. eg,

Operating system?
What are you trying to access?
How?
Are you the ADMIN?I am admin, I try to access anything such as Internet Explorer, any programs on Start menu. There is maybe a clue---I go to IE icon, get the message about no access then I right click and open Run as where I uncheck the box that says Protect my computer and data from unauthorized PROGRAM activity. After doing this, the IE opens to the internet. What is Operating System? I have Windows XP. Thanks for the reply. RogerRestart your PC. Hit the F8 key to get into start mode menu and select safe mode. Sign in as Administrator. PASSWORD might be blank.

Do you get the same symptoms?
Can you run Malwarebytes while in Safe Mode? Try it.Thanks, I will follow your direction and send a new reply.