why 'cannot overwrite existing file'?

Question

I try to write to a file "date > file" but Linux says 'cannot overwrite existing file'. I tried chmod 755 but still cannot write to the file. What should I do? Thank you.

Answer 1

If you are running bash, the noclobber option has been set. Use >| if you want to temporarily override this.

Answer 2

It is possible that the file was set as immutable with chattr. It's rarely used, but it's a realistic possibility. In that case:

chattr -i [filename]

... should be able to remove that attribute.

Answer 3

1. Go to your home folder
2. Press Ctrl + H to show hidden files
3. Check whether any of the folders are locked
4. Right click on the folder then click "properties". In that click "permissions".
5. Under owner, change folder access to "create and delete files."
6. Click "Apply Permissions to Enclosed files"

If you cannot see any locked folders then select all folders and do the above