hidden hit counter
Welcome to WindowsForumz.com!
FAQFAQ      ProfileProfile    Private MessagesPrivate Messages   Log inLog in

How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost.

 
   Windows XP (Home) -> Security Admin RSS
Next:  Predictable shutdown  
Author Message
andivijay




Joined: Sep 22, 2005
Posts: 2



(Msg. 1) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 12:24 am
Post subject: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost.

Hi there,

Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me for the action.

Vijay A

 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
NoNoBadDog!

External


Since: Jun 17, 2005
Posts: 274



(Msg. 2) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 12:24 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

"andivijay" <UseLinkToEmail DeleteThis @WindowsForumz.com> wrote in message
news:3_1420122_2ade6f4e9623bfc5f12f19f9e5f549d7@windowsforumz.com...
> Hi there,
>
> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> for the action.
>
> Vijay A
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
> request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL:
> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122

Unfortunately, you can file this one under "Live and Learn". Unless he
saved his keys, or was a member of a domain with a controller that held
duplicate keys, then the user is truly screwed.

Bobby

 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Mike Brannigan MSF

External


Since: Feb 20, 2004
Posts: 293



(Msg. 3) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 4:15 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

"andivijay" <UseLinkToEmail DeleteThis @WindowsForumz.com> wrote in message
news:3_1420122_2ade6f4e9623bfc5f12f19f9e5f549d7@windowsforumz.com...
> Hi there,
>
> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> for the action

If the machine was not a domain member, the user did not backup their
profile fully somewhere, they did not backup their own encryption keys,
they did not have a recovery agent and did not back up those keys - then the
files are almost certainly lost for good.


--

Regards,

Mike
--
Mike Brannigan [Microsoft]

This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no
rights

Please note I cannot respond to e-mailed questions, please use these
newsgroups

"andivijay" <UseLinkToEmail DeleteThis @WindowsForumz.com> wrote in message
news:3_1420122_2ade6f4e9623bfc5f12f19f9e5f549d7@windowsforumz.com...
> Hi there,
>
> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> for the action.
>
> Vijay A
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
> request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL:
> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Lazarus

External


Since: Mar 04, 2005
Posts: 1



(Msg. 4) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 7:33 am
Post subject: RE: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

Vijay, ignore the naysayers. EFS encryption can be bypassed with this
software:

try http://www.elcomsoft.com/aefsdr.html

Advanced EFS Data Recovery


Advanced EFS Data Recovery (or AEFSDR) is a program to recover (decrypt)
files encrypted on NTFS (EFS) partitions created in Windows 2000, Windows XP
and Windows Server 2003. Files are being decrypted even in a case when the
system is not bootable and so you cannot log on, and/or some encryption keys
have been tampered. Besides, decryption is possible even when Windows is
protected using SYSKEY. AEFSDR effectively (and instantly) decrypts the files
protected under all versions Windows Server 2003 (Standard and Enterprise),
Windows XP (including Service Packs 1 and 2) and Windows 2000 (including
Service Packs 1, 2, 3 and 4).



New in version 3.0:
Wizard has been implemented
seriously improved key decryption speed
improved file decryption speed: in 60 times for AES, in 11 times for DESX
decrypting files that are larger than 4Gb
added support for NTFS disks with MFT size other than 1024 bytes
complete support for UNICODE systems (like Chinese and Japanese)

They even have a free trial download (with obviously some limitations).
Let us know how it works out for you. Thanks.

"andivijay" wrote:

> Hi there,
>
> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> for the action.
>
> Vijay A
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL: http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse: http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
>
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Torgeir Bakken 1

External


Since: Mar 22, 2004
Posts: 748



(Msg. 5) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 11:15 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

Hi,

Note that without the encryption keys, AEFSDR will not be able to
decrypt the files.

From AEFSDR's "Known problems and limitations" list at
http://www.elcomsoft.com/help/aefsdr/index.html?page=requirements.htm

<quote>
The program can decrypt protected files only if encryption keys
(at least, some of them) are still exist in the system and have
not been tampered.
</quote>

As the user formatted the C: drive that contained the encryption keys,
AEFSDR will not be able to help him.

Regards,
Torgeir


Lazarus wrote:

> Vijay, ignore the naysayers. EFS encryption can be bypassed with this
> software:
>
> try http://www.elcomsoft.com/aefsdr.html
>
> Advanced EFS Data Recovery
>
>
> Advanced EFS Data Recovery (or AEFSDR) is a program to recover (decrypt)
> files encrypted on NTFS (EFS) partitions created in Windows 2000, Windows XP
> and Windows Server 2003. Files are being decrypted even in a case when the
> system is not bootable and so you cannot log on, and/or some encryption keys
> have been tampered. Besides, decryption is possible even when Windows is
> protected using SYSKEY. AEFSDR effectively (and instantly) decrypts the files
> protected under all versions Windows Server 2003 (Standard and Enterprise),
> Windows XP (including Service Packs 1 and 2) and Windows 2000 (including
> Service Packs 1, 2, 3 and 4).
>
>
>
> New in version 3.0:
> Wizard has been implemented
> seriously improved key decryption speed
> improved file decryption speed: in 60 times for AES, in 11 times for DESX
> decrypting files that are larger than 4Gb
> added support for NTFS disks with MFT size other than 1024 bytes
> complete support for UNICODE systems (like Chinese and Japanese)
>
> They even have a free trial download (with obviously some limitations).
> Let us know how it works out for you. Thanks.
>
> "andivijay" wrote:
>
>
>>Hi there,
>>
>>Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
>>without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
>>it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
>>in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
>>are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
>>a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
>>for the action.
>>
>>Vijay A
>>


--
torgeir, Microsoft MVP Scripting and WMI, Porsgrunn Norway
Administration scripting examples and an ONLINE version of
the 1328 page Scripting Guide:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/scriptcenter/default.mspx
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Jupiter Jones MVP

External


Since: Jun 13, 2004
Posts: 1861



(Msg. 6) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 11:47 pm
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

That as well as other similar programs can work very well...IF the keys are
available.
It seems from the OPs post the keys are gone so that tool will not work.

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org


"Lazarus" <Lazarus.TakeThisOut@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:8593E184-EED1-46AE-BB96-B84FEE8AA151@microsoft.com...
> Vijay, ignore the naysayers. EFS encryption can be bypassed with this
> software:
>
> try http://www.elcomsoft.com/aefsdr.html
>
> Advanced EFS Data Recovery
>
>
> Advanced EFS Data Recovery (or AEFSDR) is a program to recover (decrypt)
> files encrypted on NTFS (EFS) partitions created in Windows 2000, Windows
> XP
> and Windows Server 2003. Files are being decrypted even in a case when the
> system is not bootable and so you cannot log on, and/or some encryption
> keys
> have been tampered. Besides, decryption is possible even when Windows is
> protected using SYSKEY. AEFSDR effectively (and instantly) decrypts the
> files
> protected under all versions Windows Server 2003 (Standard and
> Enterprise),
> Windows XP (including Service Packs 1 and 2) and Windows 2000 (including
> Service Packs 1, 2, 3 and 4).
>
>
>
> New in version 3.0:
> Wizard has been implemented
> seriously improved key decryption speed
> improved file decryption speed: in 60 times for AES, in 11 times for DESX
> decrypting files that are larger than 4Gb
> added support for NTFS disks with MFT size other than 1024 bytes
> complete support for UNICODE systems (like Chinese and Japanese)
>
> They even have a free trial download (with obviously some limitations).
> Let us know how it works out for you. Thanks.
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Jupiter Jones MVP

External


Since: Jun 13, 2004
Posts: 1861



(Msg. 7) Posted: Thu Sep 22, 2005 11:49 pm
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

Without the original keys, your users data is gone for good.
See this page for ways to help prevent this in the future:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/encrypt.htm

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org


"andivijay" <UseLinkToEmail.DeleteThis@WindowsForumz.com> wrote in message
news:3_1420122_2ade6f4e9623bfc5f12f19f9e5f549d7@windowsforumz.com...
> Hi there,
>
> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> for the action.
>
> Vijay A
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
> request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL:
> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
andivijay




Joined: Sep 22, 2005
Posts: 2



(Msg. 8) Posted: Fri Sep 23, 2005 1:47 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]

Hi all,

Great thinkers around, nice to hear ya all, but as mentioned by our good friend Torgeir Bakken, the AEFSDR 3.0 didnt work, truly for the reasons mentioned below, and ohh i m searching the net like anything for pulling this thing on...

Thanks for the replies guys, do write up if ya guys can pull on a solution for this one...

Vijay A
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Tim129

External


Since: Aug 17, 2004
Posts: 103



(Msg. 9) Posted: Thu Dec 29, 2005 1:54 am
Post subject: RE: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

I am feeling your pain currently. Do not depend on Norton Ghost to save your
butt on this one since I am in your shoes after attempting to restore the
image with the original .cer and .pfx files which would have made this
simple.

The resource guide for XP leads the beginner to believe that these keys can
be recovered, but it sounds as though this definitely not the case and this
makes sense since I have been attempting to generate working certs for
several hours to no avail.
--
truth

"andivijay" wrote:

> Hi there,
>
> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> for the action.
>
> Vijay A
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL: http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse: http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
>
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Steven L Umbach5

External


Since: Jul 05, 2004
Posts: 858



(Msg. 10) Posted: Thu Dec 29, 2005 11:19 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

The Ghost image should work if the proper certificates are in the image. Pfx
files are the one that contain the EFS private key which is what is needed
to decrypt EFS files for the appropriate user or as a Recovery Agent. Pfx
files are also password protect the EFS private key. You can use efsinfo to
see what users and RA [if any] can decrypt the file and see the thumbprint
information of the certificates which can be helpful to make sure you have
the proper EFS certificate AND private key. The .cer files will not decrypt
any EFS file as they contain only the certificate and the public key. ---
Steve

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=243026 --- works the same for XP Pro
also.


"Tim" <Tim RemoveThis @discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:74C97955-235A-440D-83E6-389B55DD16A1@microsoft.com...
>I am feeling your pain currently. Do not depend on Norton Ghost to save
>your
> butt on this one since I am in your shoes after attempting to restore the
> image with the original .cer and .pfx files which would have made this
> simple.
>
> The resource guide for XP leads the beginner to believe that these keys
> can
> be recovered, but it sounds as though this definitely not the case and
> this
> makes sense since I have been attempting to generate working certs for
> several hours to no avail.
> --
> truth
>
> "andivijay" wrote:
>
>> Hi there,
>>
>> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
>> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
>> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
>> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
>> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
>> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
>> for the action.
>>
>> Vijay A
>>
>> --
>> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
>> request
>> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
>> Topic URL:
>> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
>> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
>> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
>>
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Tim129

External


Since: Aug 17, 2004
Posts: 103



(Msg. 11) Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2005 4:54 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

Well actually the image is corrupted from movement. Is there a way to peel
these out with some tool? Oddly enough the image was a dual boot of WIN 2K
and XP Pro and the WIN 2K will boot, while the WIN XP hangs at the welcome
screen forever.

Depending on NG I did not use ASR (stupid on my part) and I am fearful of
using console recovery tool since if I replace system files, I figured it may
wipe out my original security settings as well. (I have never had good luck
with recovery console since I do not know how to use it well. I wished that
MS had put the cipher command in it though as it would help right now.
--
truth


"Steven L Umbach" wrote:

> The Ghost image should work if the proper certificates are in the image. Pfx
> files are the one that contain the EFS private key which is what is needed
> to decrypt EFS files for the appropriate user or as a Recovery Agent. Pfx
> files are also password protect the EFS private key. You can use efsinfo to
> see what users and RA [if any] can decrypt the file and see the thumbprint
> information of the certificates which can be helpful to make sure you have
> the proper EFS certificate AND private key. The .cer files will not decrypt
> any EFS file as they contain only the certificate and the public key. ---
> Steve
>
> http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=243026 --- works the same for XP Pro
> also.
>
>
> "Tim" <Tim.RemoveThis@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:74C97955-235A-440D-83E6-389B55DD16A1@microsoft.com...
> >I am feeling your pain currently. Do not depend on Norton Ghost to save
> >your
> > butt on this one since I am in your shoes after attempting to restore the
> > image with the original .cer and .pfx files which would have made this
> > simple.
> >
> > The resource guide for XP leads the beginner to believe that these keys
> > can
> > be recovered, but it sounds as though this definitely not the case and
> > this
> > makes sense since I have been attempting to generate working certs for
> > several hours to no avail.
> > --
> > truth
> >
> > "andivijay" wrote:
> >
> >> Hi there,
> >>
> >> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
> >> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
> >> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
> >> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
> >> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
> >> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
> >> for the action.
> >>
> >> Vijay A
> >>
> >> --
> >> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
> >> request
> >> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> >> Topic URL:
> >> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
> >> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
> >> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
> >>
>
>
>
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Steven L Umbach5

External


Since: Jul 05, 2004
Posts: 858



(Msg. 12) Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2005 12:52 pm
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

"Tim" <Tim RemoveThis @discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:FB84F592-A22C-427E-B1CE-EC6A3593B570@microsoft.com...
> Well actually the image is corrupted from movement. Is there a way to
> peel
> these out with some tool? Oddly enough the image was a dual boot of WIN
> 2K
> and XP Pro and the WIN 2K will boot, while the WIN XP hangs at the welcome
> screen forever.
>
> Depending on NG I did not use ASR (stupid on my part) and I am fearful of
> using console recovery tool since if I replace system files, I figured it
> may
> wipe out my original security settings as well. (I have never had good
> luck
> with recovery console since I do not know how to use it well. I wished
> that
> MS had put the cipher command in it though as it would help right now.
> --
> truth
>
>
> "Steven L Umbach" wrote:
>
>> The Ghost image should work if the proper certificates are in the image.
>> Pfx
>> files are the one that contain the EFS private key which is what is
>> needed
>> to decrypt EFS files for the appropriate user or as a Recovery Agent. Pfx
>> files are also password protect the EFS private key. You can use efsinfo
>> to
>> see what users and RA [if any] can decrypt the file and see the
>> thumbprint
>> information of the certificates which can be helpful to make sure you
>> have
>> the proper EFS certificate AND private key. The .cer files will not
>> decrypt
>> any EFS file as they contain only the certificate and the public
>> y. ---
>> Steve
>>
>> http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=243026 --- works the same for XP Pro
>> also.
>>
>>
>> "Tim" <Tim RemoveThis @discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:74C97955-235A-440D-83E6-389B55DD16A1@microsoft.com...
>> >I am feeling your pain currently. Do not depend on Norton Ghost to save
>> >your
>> > butt on this one since I am in your shoes after attempting to restore
>> > the
>> > image with the original .cer and .pfx files which would have made this
>> > simple.
>> >
>> > The resource guide for XP leads the beginner to believe that these keys
>> > can
>> > be recovered, but it sounds as though this definitely not the case and
>> > this
>> > makes sense since I have been attempting to generate working certs for
>> > several hours to no avail.
>> > --
>> > truth
>> >
>> > "andivijay" wrote:
>> >
>> >> Hi there,
>> >>
>> >> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
>> >> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
>> >> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
>> >> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
>> >> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
>> >> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
>> >> for the action.
>> >>
>> >> Vijay A
>> >>
>> >> --
>> >> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
>> >> request
>> >> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
>> >> Topic URL:
>> >> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
>> >> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
>> >> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
>> >>
>>
>>
>>
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Steven L Umbach5

External


Since: Jul 05, 2004
Posts: 858



(Msg. 13) Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2005 1:01 pm
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

Too bad about the image being corrupt. Maybe trying to boot into Safe Mode
would be worth a try for the XP Pro operating system or a "upgrade/repair
install of it. If you can access the files in the XP Pro by booting to
Windows 2000 you might be able to recover the EFS private key from the XP
Pro install [it would be in the user's profile] but not by normal methods.
Microsoft paid support may be able to help or there is a program from
Elcomsoft may help. Elcomsoft has a free trial version that is limited in
that it can only recover very small files but it is very useful because it
can let you know if you can recover the EFS private key but you have the
added complication in that Windows 2000 will not be able to decrypt files
encrypted on XP Pro because of the stronger encryption method that XP Pro
uses. --- Steve

http://www.elcomsoft.com/aefsdr.html --- Elcomsoft link

"Tim" <Tim DeleteThis @discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:FB84F592-A22C-427E-B1CE-EC6A3593B570@microsoft.com...
> Well actually the image is corrupted from movement. Is there a way to
> peel
> these out with some tool? Oddly enough the image was a dual boot of WIN
> 2K
> and XP Pro and the WIN 2K will boot, while the WIN XP hangs at the welcome
> screen forever.
>
> Depending on NG I did not use ASR (stupid on my part) and I am fearful of
> using console recovery tool since if I replace system files, I figured it
> may
> wipe out my original security settings as well. (I have never had good
> luck
> with recovery console since I do not know how to use it well. I wished
> that
> MS had put the cipher command in it though as it would help right now.
> --
> truth
>
>
> "Steven L Umbach" wrote:
>
>> The Ghost image should work if the proper certificates are in the image.
>> Pfx
>> files are the one that contain the EFS private key which is what is
>> needed
>> to decrypt EFS files for the appropriate user or as a Recovery Agent. Pfx
>> files are also password protect the EFS private key. You can use efsinfo
>> to
>> see what users and RA [if any] can decrypt the file and see the
>> thumbprint
>> information of the certificates which can be helpful to make sure you
>> have
>> the proper EFS certificate AND private key. The .cer files will not
>> decrypt
>> any EFS file as they contain only the certificate and the public
>> y. ---
>> Steve
>>
>> http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=243026 --- works the same for XP Pro
>> also.
>>
>>
>> "Tim" <Tim DeleteThis @discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:74C97955-235A-440D-83E6-389B55DD16A1@microsoft.com...
>> >I am feeling your pain currently. Do not depend on Norton Ghost to save
>> >your
>> > butt on this one since I am in your shoes after attempting to restore
>> > the
>> > image with the original .cer and .pfx files which would have made this
>> > simple.
>> >
>> > The resource guide for XP leads the beginner to believe that these keys
>> > can
>> > be recovered, but it sounds as though this definitely not the case and
>> > this
>> > makes sense since I have been attempting to generate working certs for
>> > several hours to no avail.
>> > --
>> > truth
>> >
>> > "andivijay" wrote:
>> >
>> >> Hi there,
>> >>
>> >> Well my problem is, one of my user have formated the win XP m/c
>> >> without knowing that he had Encrypted folder with files encryped in
>> >> it. Now my problem is, he has formated his C: drive and the files are
>> >> in D: drive, and after the reinstallation of the M/c none of his files
>> >> are opening, worst case, this M/c is a standalone m/c and I dont have
>> >> a solution where i can decrypt his files for him. Please suggest me
>> >> for the action.
>> >>
>> >> Vijay A
>> >>
>> >> --
>> >> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's
>> >> request
>> >> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
>> >> Topic URL:
>> >> http://www.windowsforumz.com/Security-Admin-Decrypt-EFS-Files-Win-XP-P...OS-lost
>> >> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse:
>> >> http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1420122
>> >>
>>
>>
>>
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Michael Kinder

External


Since: Jan 26, 2006
Posts: 1



(Msg. 14) Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2006 4:04 pm
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

I had this very thing happen to me and I have downloaded a trial version of
Elcomsoft EFS decrytpion program mentioned in this thread.

I don't know what the problem was that the person who said that this program
didn't work was getting. It was able to decrypt the first 512 bytes of the
files that were encrytped on my computer(that's all the trial version will
decrypt).

Is this what he was running into and it just was not decrypting the rest of
the files or was he getting a different error?

I was going to buy the program, but I would hate to spend the $99 to find
out all I'm getting is the first 512 bytes.
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Steven L Umbach5

External


Since: Jul 05, 2004
Posts: 858



(Msg. 15) Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2006 10:25 am
Post subject: Re: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. [Login to view extended thread Info.]
Archived from groups: per prev. post (more info?)

The program will not work if the user or RA EFS private key is not found on
the computer. If it is found and you can enter the correct user password to
unlock it then you should have access to the files that can be decrypted by
that EFS private key. The trial version lets you know that and from your
description I would say you have a very good change of recovering your
files. Be sure to email them if you have any further questions. --- Steve



"Michael Kinder" <michael1.TakeThisOut@NoSPAM.com> wrote in message
news:f1adf93c1695452185dd83c09c0bf00a@ureader.com...
>I had this very thing happen to me and I have downloaded a trial version of
> Elcomsoft EFS decrytpion program mentioned in this thread.
>
> I don't know what the problem was that the person who said that this
> program
> didn't work was getting. It was able to decrypt the first 512 bytes of the
> files that were encrytped on my computer(that's all the trial version will
> decrypt).
>
> Is this what he was running into and it just was not decrypting the rest
> of
> the files or was he getting a different error?
>
> I was going to buy the program, but I would hate to spend the $99 to find
> out all I'm getting is the first 512 bytes.
 >> Stay informed about: How to Decrypt EFS Files in Win XP Pro when OS is lost. 
Back to top
Login to vote
Display posts from previous:   
Related Topics:
Help. Can't Delete Suspect Files - I've got some kind of bug (possibly CSW.Jksearch) and cannot remove a very suspicious Folder called Zing Temp with a subfolder called UploadFiles. It is in my Local Settings\Temp\ folder. I started in Safe Mod as an Admin and deleted my History,..

lost password - i bought a pc from a friend a year ago but after few days i did change the passwors then i havent used it for a month straight after . when i did start it again i couldn t remember the new password .is any body know how to sort this problem out ..

Deleted Admin Files - While re-arranging accounts on a stand-alone PC, I created a new administrator and deleted an old one. I am now unable to access the "My Documents" of the original admin account though it is apparent that they are still on the computer. The ...

can't access files - I had a password on my username. XP Pro crashed so I had to reinstall. I tried to repair and it didn't work so I installed XP on another hard drive. I have my old drive as a slave and am trying to access the files in my old User directory but it won'...

user files not private - Spent hours on this already and can't find any info in FAQ or elsewhere.. I just upgraded to xp-pro from win98. There are 3 users: one administer and 2 limited. Computer is stand alone - not networks in sight. Problem is everybody's documents are..
   Windows XP (Home) -> Security Admin All times are: Eastern Time (US & Canada) (change)
Page 1 of 1

 
You can post new topics in this forum
You can reply to topics in this forum
You can edit your posts in this forum
You can delete your posts in this forum
You can vote in polls in this forum

Categories:
  Windows XP
 Win 2000/NT/98/ME
 Windows Vista!


[ Contact us | Terms of Service/Privacy Policy ]