Error -36 in macOS: Finder cannot complete the operation

Error -36 in macOS occurs when copying or moving files through Finder. The system usually reports: “The Finder can’t complete the operation because some data can’t be read or written.”

Main Causes

• Corrupted hidden files ._
• Errors on external drives
• Incompatible file system
• Corrupted metadata

Method 1: Cleaning Up Service Files

dot_clean /path/to/folder

Method 2: Checking the Disk

1. Open Disk Utility
2. Select the disk
3. Click First Aid

Method 3: Checking the Disk Format

• For macOS, it's better to use APFS
• For compatibility with Windows — exFAT

Conclusion

Error -36 is most often associated with corrupted metadata or drive issues. Using dot_clean and checking the disk through Disk Utility helps resolve the problem.