Windows can set a "read-only" attribute on a specific disk via its registry or command-line utilities, often as a result of a crash or a specific security policy. The "How-To": Removing Write Protection
There are three main reasons a drive enters this "read-only" state: usb-write-protect
Modern flash drives have a built-in "retirement plan." When the NAND flash memory cells wear out or the controller detects a hardware failure, it often switches to a permanent read-only mode. This is a safety feature to let you save your data before the drive dies completely. Windows can set a "read-only" attribute on a
USB write protection is a double-edged sword: it’s a powerful security feature when it works, but a frustrating "brick" when it triggers unexpectedly. usb-write-protect