Windows 10: Decrypt EFS Files in New Windows 10 System

Hello Everybody,

I know this is a long shot but it is my final attempt. I'll try to be brief:
I previously ran my Windows 10 on a laptop with HDD. During that time, I encrypted some files using EFS.
Then, I decided to switch over to a SSD. I backed up all my files, then took out the HDD, put in the new SSD & clean installed Windows 10. Next, I (stupidly) dban'ed the HDD and installed it in another laptop to run a different OS.

Now, I am unable to open or decrypt the EFS encrypted files because the encryption certificates are obviously no longer in the new Windows 10 system. I have tried using command prompt but it couldn't successfully decrypt the files.

Does anyone know of any other ways or software that's powerful enough to decrypt the EFS encrypted files (I know this is a stupid question because if there was, then EFS will not be good enough an encryption tool), or do I really have to forget about those files completely?


Regards,
Andrew

:)

 

decrypting efs file

I assume that you never created a backup key or recovery agent as would have been suggested when you first started using EFS.

The way that Elcomsoft and other data recovery experts attempt to recover encrypted files is to search through the system's hard drive for information that they can use to recreate the decryption key. If you threw away the laptop and its system drive and
all you have now is the encrypted file itself, you're out of luck.

From Elcomsoft's explanation (Advanced EFS Data Recovery | Elcomsoft Co.Ltd.):

You can always email or call Elcomsoft or one of the other data recovery firms, but I would expect them to tell you the same thing.

 

Decrypt Files and Folders with EFS in Windows 10


Command:
Code:

Code:

fsutil behavior set disableencryption 1

Disabling EFS does not decrypt files, a user might want to decrypt them to be able to access them after reinstall.
Code:

Code:

cipher /d /s:C:\

Decrypt Files and Folders with EFS in Windows 10 Security System Tutorials

 

Decrypt files encrypted with efs system

Hello,

For better assistance, we recommend posting your concern to our IT Professionals on this
link.

Let us know if you have other concerns.

Regards.