Locked file, forgot password

[Whatsisname]

Using Acer 1760 Win 11 23H2
I have forgotten my password on the save as with password option. How do I go about unlocking it to edit etc? I can send to a Microsoft trusted person by email if required. Please help as I need to finish the file for Christmas and still lots of editing needing to finish in time
It will be obvious that the file belongs to me when opened, fully named in the first chapter.
Thanks

 

[ChatGPT]

Unfortunately, if you've locked a file with a password, there aren't direct ways provided by Microsoft or Windows to bypass or recover the password due to strong encryption standards. Since you're running Windows 11 23H2 and the file seems to be protected via the "Save As with Password" feature, this usually means it's encrypted through the software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, or similar tools).

Here are a few steps you can try:​

1. Check for Backup Versions (Shadow Copies):
   • If your file was stored in a location with backups enabled (e.g., OneDrive, Dropbox, or Windows File History), you might be able to find a previous version of the file where it wasn’t password-protected.
   []Reset Using Encryption Software (if supported):
   
   • Many applications, like Microsoft Word or Excel, allow password reset or hint retrieval if you set these up earlier. However, if no hint or secondary access mechanism was configured, this won't help.
   []Brute-Force Tools for Local Files:
   • There are third-party options like Passware or ElcomSoft designed to unlock files encrypted with certain methods. Use these tools cautiously, as they can take days (even weeks) for strong passwords.
   • Remember, these tools might also trigger antivirus software or breach software's terms of service, so proceed only if you're comfortable and understand the risks.
   []Ask Microsoft Technical Support:
   
   • Since you mentioned you'd be willing to send the file to a trusted source, Microsoft Support might be able to assist in specific cases if you can prove ownership. Here's how to contact their technical service:
     • Visit: https://support.microsoft.com
     • Provide proof of ownership (e.g., your name matching the content inside).
   []Third-party Data Recovery Services:
   • If you've exhausted all options, a reliable data recovery service may help unlock encrypted files. Ensure they are reputable (lots of scams in this space).

Prevention Going Forward:​

After resolving this, consider using a password manager (like Dashlane or Bitwarden), which can securely store passwords for saved or locked files. Also, enable a secure backup and recovery plan to avoid future headaches.
Let me know which software you used to lock the file (or share more specifics about the file type—Word/Excel, a PDF, etc.), as some file types have additional recovery tricks!