NTFS data encryption problem !!!? (XP, 2k)

[whatson]

Hi I have a huge problem


On the disk number 1 I have data crypted in ntfs file system (right button click, Sharing and security... crypt)
And... just today... my operating system crashed...
I took disk from one computer and put it into another one and I tried to copy data from disk 1 to disk 2. (to make backups)
Problem is, that I am unable to copy crypted files (others works fine) from disk 1 to disk 2. I try to decrypt those files, but all I got is PERMISSION DENIED popup.
And I am logged as Administrator at this computer.

Don't know what to do... how to make backups... and If I reinstall my OS, what will happen to these crypted files?

Please help .:disgust: these files are very very important.

 

[AndyHui]

Unless you backed up your encryption certificates, your files are gone.

There is NOTHING you can do about it. No ifs, no buts.

That's why I wrote How to use EFS and backup your Private Key.

 

[Derango]

Was just about to post that...but andy got to it first

Yea, UNless you can still boot your OS...Its very likely that you're not going to be able to get those files back.

 

[Abzstrak]

Thats not a problem, its doing exactly what you told it to do... What good is encryption if you could simply copy the files off?

 

[bsobel]

Whatson;

First Ghost off the bad drive somewhere in case your further effors to fix the non booting OS fail.

Second, try to fix the non-booting os (what exactly is wrong, once we boot this we can address the files, even safe mode should be good)

Third, you can try to install the OS overitself (e.g. an upgrade) to correct the problem but keep your security settings/encryption key.

Everyone else (espically Andy);

This is a case where there is still a chance to recover the files, the key is getting the original OS to boot. I know that most of these posts are made long after the original OS is gone (usually after a full reinstall), but this is a case where he should be shown what the options are. I think you could have done a disservice to him if he went and did a full install based on your post without trying to recover the original OS first.

My 2 cents,
Bill

 

[AndyHui]

Bill: good point. I had assumed that he had already installed a new instance of Windows. You probably know of my frustration over this issue.

whatson: If you can get back into your original OS installation, you should be able to access those files.