FIX: Someone is still using this PC

by Vladimir Popescu

Managing Editor

Last update:April 6, 2021

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A large number of users have reported seeing the confusing message Someone is still using this PC on their Windows 10 devices. It can be extremely frustrating, as the message appears when trying to shut down or restart your PC.

This error also implies that your work will be lost on the other account if not saved.

For this reason, some users that encounter this error end up not restarting or shutting down their PC for months on end. This, in turn, makes your PC run slower overall and causes you even more stress.

Because we understand how it feels to be stuck in this vicious cycle, and also know how important it is for you to be able to access your files, in today’s article we will explore a quick fix.

Because the specific cause for this error message can vary, we compiled a list with the best troubleshooting methods that managed to help users that experienced the same situation.

What do I do about Someone is still using this PC error?

1. Run an anti-malware tool

As a first and easy step, we recommend running a deep scan with a powerful antivirus tool to remove any unwanted malware (if that is the case).

You can always go for a free tool for a simple scan and malware removal, but real-time protection is only available with a premium product.

More so, a paid antivirus is also efficient against malicious exploits of any kind and it brings various features meant to ensure safety against more complex exploits including webcam protection or password managers.

Malwarebytes

Don’t compromise when it comes to your device’s health. Use this powerful malware removal tool and make sure no one has access to your personal data.

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2. Check accounts inside Windows 10

1. Press Win+X keys on your keyboard and select Settings.
2. Inside the Settings window, select Accounts.
3. Check to see the available accounts.
4. Log into any of them found beside the Administrator. Save your work then log out. (In case there is no work to be saved it is recommended that you delete that account)
5. After removing all the accounts besides the Administrator, retry to restart your PC and check to see if the issue is resolved. If not, try the next method.

3. Uninstall your third-party antivirus software

Some Windows 10 users have dealt with Someone still using this PC error by simply uninstalling their third-party antivirus software.

This issue seems to be caused by Avast and AVG antivirus software options. It is recommended that you temporarily uninstall your antivirus software, and check to see if that caused the issue.

Out previous recommendation, Malwarebytes, alongside a few other similar software are known to be unintrusive, so you should have no problem if you install it, as recommended before.

Besides, to eliminate any suspicion of interference, we suggest using an uninstaller tool such as IObit Uninstaller, to delete all traces of unwanted programs.

With only a couple of clicks, IObit removes all program leftovers including hidden or temporary files, which is extremely helpful.

⇒ Get IObit Uninstaller

4. Check for qued printing tasks on your PC

Some users have solved the Someone is still using this PC error by simply checking the queue of their printing devices.

Remove all unfinished tasks from that list, and try to see if this fixes your issue.

5. Run SFC scan in PowerShell

1. Press Win+X keys and select PowerShell (Admin).
2. Inside the command prompt, type sfc /scannow a and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete and check to see if the issue is resolved.

We would love to know if this guide helped you solve your issue. You can let us know by using the comment section found below.