Encrypted files recovery

  • Thread starter Thread starter P.Partovi
  • Start date Start date
P

P.Partovi

Hi,
I had encrypted one of my folders when i was using my
first copy of Windows XP Pro.
For an unknown modem problem I had to reinstall Windows
XP,and now I don't have any permissions to modify,copy or
move my encrypted folder.

I used the 'mmc' and 'group policy' to add a recovery
agent but I didn't succeed.
How can I gain access to my encrypted folder?

Thanks,
P.Partovi
 
Greetings --

If the your encryption certificates and keys were not backed up
before the reinstallation, and the workstation isn't part of a domain,
those files are gone, for all practical purposes. Encryption works
well and there is no "back door" or hack to access the files.
(Wouldn't be much point to EFS if it were vulnerable.)

If the files weren't actually encrypted and you're getting an
"Access denied" message:

HOW TO Take Ownership of a File or Folder in WinXP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308421


Bruce Chambers

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having both at once. -- RAH
 
Are you sure it is not an Ownership issue:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=308421

If the files are encrypted.
If you did not back-up the encryption key or the Recovery Agent and
are not on a domain, the files are as good as gone.
This must be accomplished while you have access to the files.
If you have not already done so, it is now to late.

If you can restore the original profile (not recreate) you may be able
to recover the data.
Recreating profiles and passwords is irrelevant.
Contact Microsoft if you can restore the profile.
Or:
http://www.beginningtoseethelight.org/efsrecovery/index.php

EFS is very good at what it does and there is no back door.
Read and understand these links before using EFS to keep from
permanently losing your data:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/techinfo/administration/recovery/default.asp
(58 pages)
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=223316
 
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