Hidden a folder with wise folder hider, now all files encrypted but cant open any of them. What should I do?

Question

I recently tried Wise folder Hider to hide some of my files in a folder using a password, but due to some reasons i had to format my pc and transferred all data to external HDD. Now in my fresh windows i cant copy or have a look at that files i backed up in HDD everything is locked with a lock icon. i know the passwords but cant use it. tried reinstalling wise folder hider but it doesnt show previously hidden folders as everthing in the pc got formatted..

please help everything was very important to me. I know the passwords but files ownership is changed i think because of the new install tried contacting Wise team but they are clueless about it.

please please help

Answer 1

It sounds like your files were encrypted by the Wise Folder Hider, and because you formatted your PC, the association with the encryption was lost, which is why you can't access them, even though you know the password. Here are a few steps you might try:

1. Reinstall Wise Folder Hider: Make sure you are using the same version or a compatible version of Wise Folder Hider that was used originally.

2. External HDD Access: Ensure you have proper read/write permissions for the external HDD where your files are stored. Sometimes operating systems restrict access to files from a different installation.

3. Restore File Ownership: You may need to take ownership of the files in Windows. You can do this by right-clicking the file or folder, selecting 'Properties', then 'Security', and modifying the ownership settings.

4. Decryption Attempts: If Wise Folder Hider can recognize or accept the encrypted files directly, input the password you remember to attempt decryption manually.

5. Backup Systems: Consider using a data recovery program that can scan for and recover locked files or check if any backup system (like Windows backup or third-party software) was in use to restore a previous state.

6. Contact Wise Software Support: Since you've had trouble getting help initially, try reaching their forums or support pages again with more context. It's crucial to ensure they understand your situation fully.

7. Professional Data Recovery: As a last resort, consult a professional data recovery service for assistance, though this can be costly.

Take backup precautions in the future to mitigate such situations, and possibly consult tech support professionals for personalized help tailored to your setup.

Answer 2

Only that certain files been locked due to EFS or Bitlocker encryption because ownership rights are lost. It is not even taking ownership because the windows has new certificates and key after fresh install and previous ones are all lost because i was not certain about such happening.

Now it seems completely impossible for me to retrieve anything back.