Windows 10: Accessing encrypted files

Discus and support Accessing encrypted files in Windows 10 Network and Sharing to solve the problem; I have files on my backup hard drive which I cannot access - they have little padlock symbols on them. After trying many different things, I get two... Discussion in 'Windows 10 Network and Sharing' started by RomanRencki, Apr 5, 2020.

  1. Accessing encrypted files


    I have files on my backup hard drive which I cannot access - they have little padlock symbols on them.

    After trying many different things, I get two messages:

    1. There is a problem decrypting the files - access denied or words to that effect

    2. "You need administrator permission to access this file" I am listed as the administrator on this computer.

    I did not knowingly encrypt these files, just backed them up on the HD.


    When I go through "properties" the permissions I see against my name have grey ticks, rather than black ones.

    This suggests they are not actually effective/available.


    Please help!!

    :)
     
    RomanRencki, Apr 5, 2020
    #1

  2. Windows XP file encryption

    LOL thanks, I think its standard windows XP file encryption
     
    troyrae360, Apr 5, 2020
    #2
  3. File Encryption

    Yes,

    That is indeed the way to do it. Please observe the following:

    • Turning off the encryption setting does not remove encryption
    • Hard resetting your device destroys the only copy of the encryption key, and thus your access to these precious pictures.
    I would suggest copying them reguraly, or you can automate this using Microsoft's MyPhone service (free).

    Jaap

    Eigenaar van This domain was registered by Youdot.io Beheerder van http://wiki.pdatotaal.info
     
    Jaap v. Ekris, Apr 5, 2020
    #3
  4. modder Win User

    Accessing encrypted files

    Software encryption

    read this:
    The Encrypting File System (EFS) is a file system driver with filesystem-level encryption available in Microsoft Windows (2000 and later) operating systems, except Windows XP Home Edition, Windows Vista Basic, and Windows Vista Home Premium. The technology transparently allows files to be encrypted on NTFS file systems to protect confidential data from attackers with physical access to the computer.

    User authentication and access control lists can protect files from unauthorized access while the operating system is running, but are easily circumvented if an attacker gains physical access to the computer. One solution is to store the files encrypted on the disks of the computer. EFS does this using public key cryptography, and aims to ensure that decrypting the files is in theory impossible without the correct key. However, EFS is in practice susceptible to brute-force attacks against the user account passwords. In other words, encryption of files is only as strong as the password to unlock the decryption key.

    read more ...wikipedia Encrypting File System - Wikipedia
     
    modder, Apr 5, 2020
    #4
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Accessing encrypted files

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