how do I get access to my encrypted files?

Question

Hi, I've been using file encryption on one of my folders for years now, no problem. Encryption was enabled through Explorer, right-click on the file, Properties, Advanced, Encrypt Contents. I am using Windows 10.

Until recently, when I added a local user to log into, to try to resolve WiFi issues.

I've since gone back to (what I believe) was the Microsoft account for logging into Windows.

This e-mail address matches the owner of the files that Explorer properties tells me owns the files. I believe the name might be different (Richard might have been the original name, new one is Richy K), if that could have an effect.

My user also has Full Control access to the files.

When trying to access any of the files, I get the message

You do not have permission to open this file. See the owner of the file or an administrator to obtain permission.

What I believe to be the certificate is in the Trusted Root Certification Authority store, and there is also a private key corresponding to the certificate.

How do I get access to my files back?

Thanks,

Richard

Answer 1

Hello there,

The name change might not be an issue as far as I know.This could be due to one of the following reasons:

-You don’t have permission to access the file,

-The file you are trying to access is corrupt,

-If you are using any third-party security software, it may be blocking the file.

In most cases, this issue occurs when the user doesn’t have sufficient permissions to access the file. So I would suggest you take ownership of the file and then check if the issue persists. Refer to these steps:

Right-click the program that you want to take ownership of, and then click Properties.

Click the Security tab, and then click OK on the Security message (if one appears).

Click Advanced, and then click change. Enter your password if prompted.

Type in your username and press enter.

If you want to take ownership of the contents of the folder, select the Replace owner on sub containers and objects check box.

Click OK and close all the windows.

Follow step a and b, click on advanced.

Under "permissions" tab, select your user account and click on "change permissions"

Check the "Replace all child object permission entries from this object." option and click Ok.

All permissions will be replaced if you click Yes.

Hope this resolves your Query !!

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