Lost access to file directory
 

Before reinstalling windows, I encrypted one of my directories ages ago and forgot about it. When I reinstalled windows recently, the user I encrypted the files under obviously no longer existed and I can see the files and folder now, but can't access them (btw, they are on a separate drive from the OS). Do any of you have any ideas as to how to regain access to these files?

B

Ok, you need to tell me how you can't get access. Can you not move them, select them, open them or what?

I can access the folder and right click on all the files in the folder, but when I try and open files and play an mp3s, for example, it says access denied and when I try to uncheck/check things in the the properties tabs, it just reverts back to its old settings when I hit ok.

B

Just 'access denied' in a Windows error box, or a password field or something?

I am certain I could figure out the password (if there is one), but there is no password menu, it just won't let me use the files in the directory. I can see in the security settings the registry entry and user name of the owner of the encryption (my old user name), but this seems useless to me at this point.

It is Windows XP MCE.

B

When I try to play the MP3s, for example, it says something like access denied, file is in use or your proxy server is set improperly (there is no proxy server, obviously hehe).

B

If the user doesn't exist anymore, and there is no integer value (1 or 0) in the regsitry for the encryption (to turn encyption or/off), you could be screwed.

There are some paid for programs about the net that can decrypt data, and the free ones are a bit sucky tbh.

You can try to decrypt with a either type; However you may lose some data from the files. Best option is to send them to a data recovery company like QuickRec in the UK. (I work in forensic computing so i know this shit :) ) Theye are v expensive tho.

You could try messing about with loads of stuff, but it will propbably end up with lost data. If it wasn't vital stuff, I'd just say re-downlaod it or buy it again.

The files, for the most part, aren't that important. I am more curious and intrigued by fixing at least part of the problem. I reformatted and did a clean install for this new XP MCE. What can I do to possibly get some of the data back? You mention some free programs etc...

B

BTW, how do I check for the encryption 1/0 in the registry ?

I never use them, and haven't lookked at them for about 4 years tbh. Professional stuff I use at work took over... Plus I've beena Mac man for just over a year.

Hit Google see what you can rustle up. Also, if you know a programming language, you can normally work around poor encryption. I don't program so can't help ya there.

Sorry I couldn't be much help m8. Brain dies after 18 hours analysing CCTV, and tracing an illegal image back through 100s of PCs. All in a days work... :)

It should be a value in the files listings. There may not be any specific listings for the file. Only really poor encryption uses ait.