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Error occured applying attributes to file[when decrypting encrypted folder]

Discussion in 'Windows XP' started by GRock84, 2009/03/01.

  1. 2009/03/01
    GRock84

    GRock84 Inactive Thread Starter

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    I'm running XP Pro. A while ago I encrypted a folder and all its contents via EFS. Between now an then I never changed passwords or reformated my hard drive, but when i try to decrypt the folder by unchecking the "Encrypt contents to secure data" box I get the good ol' "Error occured applying attributes to file: Access Denied" message. The weird thing is that I can still view the contents, execute, move, copy or delete any file in the folder. I have taken ownership of the folder 50 million times but it has no effect. The folder is still green indicating it is encrypted with EFS. Also, when I download new files or programs to the folder I can't access them.

    I have searched high and low for an answer. Alas, I have found nothing.

    Any hint as how to fix this would be greatly appreciated!!
     
    GRock84,
    #1
  2. 2009/03/01
    BurrWalnut

    BurrWalnut Well-Known Member Alumni

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    Have you tried giving yourself ‘permission’?

    I’m a bit out of date on XP but I think the ‘Simple File’ sharing of XP Pro may have a bearing.
     
    BurrWalnut,
    #2


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  4. 2009/03/01
    GRock84

    GRock84 Inactive Thread Starter

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    Yeah I tried that. I still get nothing. I forgot to mention that when I select to decrypt the folder it says "Error occured applying attributes to file: Access Denied" but gives me the option to Ignore or cancel. When I select ignore it goes through the folder as if it is decrypting but when it finishes the folder is still green...
     
    GRock84,
    #3
  5. 2009/03/02
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    I have not used the native encryption in XP and prefer to use the Open Source TrueCrypt which encrypts on the fly. Thus if a file/folder is removed from the encrypted container it is no longer encrypted - I wonder if the same applies to encryption in XP.

    In other words if you move the contents of the encrypted folder outside the folder is the encryption maintained. If it is not move the contents of the folder elsewhere and delete the folder and start over, preferably with TrueCrypt.
     
    PeteC,
    #4
  6. 2009/03/02
    GRock84

    GRock84 Inactive Thread Starter

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    Yeah I use TrueCrypt pretty often also. but I encryted this folder a while ago before I Used TrueCrypt. And I tried moving the files outside of the folder, they remained encrypted no matter where I moved them. Its weird. I can do what ever I want with the folder and files but Windows says it's all encrypted.
     
    GRock84,
    #5
  7. 2009/03/03
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    You've clearly seen this .....

    How to remove file or folder encryption in Windows XP

    which suggests that you do not fall into the group of people that can remove encryption, but if you originally encrypted the folder ..... wierd.

    A suggestion here ......

    http://www.experts-exchange.com/OS/Microsoft_Operating_Systems/Windows/XP/Q_23790147.html

    that if you reset your password as opposed to changing it you have problems.

    More here ......

    http://www.google.com/search?source...LG_enGB302GB227&q=unable+to+decrypt+folder+xp

    I doubt this would work as it seems too easy and insecure - if you save the file under another name does it remain in an encrypted state?
     
    PeteC,
    #6
  8. 2009/03/03
    GRock84

    GRock84 Inactive Thread Starter

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    Yeah when I change the name it stays remains encrypted.
     
    GRock84,
    #7
  9. 2009/03/04
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    I don't think I have anything else to offer beyond that which you already have access to via Google. As I posted earlier I have not used the native encryption in XP.
     
    PeteC,
    #8
  10. 2009/03/09
    GRock84

    GRock84 Inactive Thread Starter

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    ok well thanks anyway. it doesn't seem to be hurting anything. i'll just download my files to a different folder from now on. I appreciate the help though. "...As I posted earlier I have not used the native encryption in XP " I would suggest you didn't.
     
    Last edited: 2009/03/09
    GRock84,
    #9

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