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How do I decrypt files without the certificate?

Anonymous
2024-07-21T16:54:45+00:00

I recently changed jobs and returned the laptop with the certificate on it. I now have files on an external hard drive that I cannot gain access to. To further compound matters, I switched over to the enemy (Apple). I still have access to my wife's windows 10 machine so I can do something there if needed. Is there any way I can get access to these files back? I cannot remember if I encrypted them on Windows 10 or after I switched to Windows 11. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Security and privacy

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  1. Manoel Barros 17,240 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-07-21T20:33:24+00:00

    Hello, I'm Manoel Barros! I will help you in the best way possible, using my knowledge and experience.

    Encryption is designed to protect data from unauthorized access. Therefore, without the access certificate or password, it is not possible to decrypt the data.

    • Try contacting IT Support at your old company and see if you can get the certificate or password for decryption.
    • If you are using BitLocker, try to retrieve the Recovery Key. See the methods below:
    1. In the link below, you can check how to recover your Recovery Key.

    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/fin....

    1. When you find your Recovery Key, press WINDOWS + R keys > Type "control".
    2. When opening the Control Panel, select "System and Security" > "BitLocker Drive Encryption" > Click on the "Turn off BitLocker" option > Enter your Recovery Key > Wait for the process to finish.

    I will be here to answer any questions or information!

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