📎 AI Summary:
The forum thread discusses concerns about Windows' built-in zip file password memory, which retains the password even after closing the file or restarting the computer, raising security concerns. The original poster seeks advice on how to make Windows forget the password or manually clear stored credentials, and later asks for alternative encryption solutions since they lack Windows Pro. Responders suggest using encrypted containers like VeraCrypt or better compression tools like 7-Zip for improved security, with the overall tone recommending more secure methods over Windows' default options.
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spiderplant0

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Thread Author #1
I have a password protected zip file. When I dbl click it, windows opens it and asks for the password before I can view the files inside the zip. However I have noticed that when I put the PC into hibernate and then switch the PC on again, windows has remembered the password and I dont have to enter it again. This is not secure for my needs. Is there a setting somewhere where I tell windows to forget the password on major events such as going to sleep or hibernating etc. Or, if not, is there a way to manually flush it's password store?
 

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BIGBEARJEDI
Password protection and file/folder/volume encryption are 2 different animals. This can cause problems with backups and image backups later on. I would suggest that if you don't need encryption, but just better password protection, try the 7zip program which is free, and they also have a better low-cost paid version too which should solve your problem without all the backup issues you're liable to run into with encryption methods.
Just a thought.

<<<BIGBEARJEDI>>> :brew:
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Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#2
If the zip is open when it hibernates then the file is unlocked then it will remain unlocked. Zip files are not that secure anyways, so I wouldn't worry about it to much. If you want real security and you have a Pro version of Windows you can create an encrypted VHD file which is much more secure.
 

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spiderplant0

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Mar 15, 2016
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Thread Author #3
Hi, thanks for the reply.

It seems to remember the password even if the zip file is closed (inc closing down windows explorer).

I think you are saying that windows in-built zip is not very secure. Can you recommend an alternative (I dont have windows pro)?
 

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Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#4
You can create encrypted containers with VeraCrypt Link Removed
 

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BIGBEARJEDI

BIGBEARJEDI

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#6
Password protection and file/folder/volume encryption are 2 different animals. This can cause problems with backups and image backups later on. I would suggest that if you don't need encryption, but just better password protection, try the 7zip program which is free, and they also have a better low-cost paid version too which should solve your problem without all the backup issues you're liable to run into with encryption methods.
Just a thought.

<<<BIGBEARJEDI>>> :brew:
 

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