cannot access encrypted files

Question

I got some files that I've encrypted by EFS on windows 11. After I got some issues, I have to reinstall windows 10 then I lost my access to the files that I've encrypted even I use the same Microsoft account on both system and it's on the same computer.

I've tried may methods to add more user to the encrypted files following this topic "https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/error-0x80071771/4d6140a5-8989-4ea4-bae1-88e4ed623812" but It doesn't works.

I don't remember the time I reinstall windows 10 on that computer is before or after I upgrade the CPU and the motherboard. If that does matter to my issue can anyone please explain to me. I can still take back the old cpu and mainboard if it can solve my problem. Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi Đinh,

My name is Igor, it's a pleasure for me to help others and I'll do all my best to help you.

Do you have a backup copy of your old system or exported encryption certificate?

If not, I'm very sorry but your data are lost unfortunately.

You may try to use third party tools in attempts to decrypt your files, e.g. Advanced EFS Data Recovery tool, but chances are low.

However, you may keep your files as is, hoping that 20-30 years later an increasing CPU power will allow to crack this encrypting.

If you used quick formatting, your last resort is data recovering tools such as DMDE or Recuva. Maybe they will be able to find the bodies of old registry files on the disk. In this case Advanced EFS Data Recovery tool may be helpful.

Your problem is not related with a hardware, The problem is in creating a new local account on the PC. I sympathize with you, but this is the purpose of the encrypting - to block data access without keys.

P.S. The tips in the topic you've mentioned are not about EFS in fact unfortunately.

Answer 2

Hi Igor,

I'm very apriciate your reply. Eventhough I see that this is a deadend but at least I know that I am in a very complicated situation and there's not much hope.

Thank you so much for helping.

Best regards.

Answer 3

It seems, it's a time to develop a useful habit of backup regular creation. Sorry if I upset you.

Answer 4

So sorry to bother you again but I found this file on another disk on my computer. Hopefully this is what I need. And if so, how do I use it to decrypt those files. Thank you.