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Ukeje
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Join Date: Aug 2013
Posts: 93

Securing File(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 10:53 AM

Can anyone here please let me know how I can secure self classified documents in my windows operated pc whereby no one else except me can access and open the file after it is stored regardless of the windows compatible program that was used to created or save it. I currently do it by using the windows "control panel" "files and folders" to set any file I choose to hidden. The disadvantage of this is that anybody with the knowledge of this can easily go to control panel and make my file accessible again. What is the secure way of hiding my self classified files in a windows based pc. Thank you for anticipated help.

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lyn
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#1

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 11:02 AM

There is no way to be absolutely positive that your files are secure except to copy them onto an external hard drive or thumb drive and then delete the files by physically destroying the internal drive in your PC, or wiping and overwriting the hard drive several times.
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Shyam
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#10
In reply to #1

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/13/2015 2:04 AM

Yes, deleting a file does not erase a file. It only erases the header linked to sectors or blocks of sectors where file exists in number of blocks on your hard disk.

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SolarEagle
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#2

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 2:10 PM

You can encrypt your files so that a key is required to open them...

http://www.tomsguide.com/us/encrypt-files-windows,news-18314.html

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lyn
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#3
In reply to #2

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 2:48 PM

There is NO encryption key or code that cannot be broken by a skilled hacker.

Keys will keep the honest people honest, that's all.
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SolarEagle
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#4
In reply to #3

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 3:04 PM

Well it's a step above "hidden files"....The level of security should be determined by the level of threat....

http://lifehacker.com/five-best-file-encryption-tools-5677725

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lyn
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#5
In reply to #4

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 3:08 PM

My problem is I'm afraid if I encrypted something I'd never get it un-encrypted.
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SolarEagle
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#6
In reply to #5

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 3:12 PM

That's why I make all my passwords "I can't remember"....haha

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Mike Proctor
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#12
In reply to #6

Re: Securing file(s) in Windows

12/14/2015 11:33 AM

You could also make it "incorrect password", then it will remind you when you can't remember it.

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Anonymous Hero
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#7

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 5:58 PM

I have a similar situation.

The solution is to keep that computer off-line at all times. There are network or wireless connection to that machine.

I use a different PC for internet and email.

If you want security while traveling with that data you can use a lockable drive such as Apricorn.

Nos system is perfect, but I am assuming you are not needing Tempest security protocols or you wouldn't be here asking questions. ;-)
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cuba_pete
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#15
In reply to #7

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

01/11/2016 12:13 PM

Good advice, actually.
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Mr. small
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#8

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 7:39 PM

As lyn suggested store it in a external drive or as per SE-encrytp it or may be buy a pc and dedicate it offline for the rest of its use.

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Beenaround
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#9

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

12/12/2015 10:59 PM

Look up "Bitlocker" . Also suggest you take your important questions to a different site for worthy answers. This one has a lack of expierence, open mindedness, and politeness.

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jack of all trades
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#11

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

12/13/2015 6:20 PM

The method of protection seriously depends on the content of the files, from 'no protection needed' up to 'encrypted data storage secured in a safe and only accessed with a stand-alone computer with no internet or network access located in a bunker which no one has any idea exists'

What is the content of the files exactly?

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PWSlack
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#13

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

12/14/2015 3:50 PM

Please explain the point of creating a document that no-one else can read? The concept is totally lost on this reader.

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Ukeje
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#14

Re: Securing File(s) in Windows

12/19/2015 1:55 AM

My regards to all contributors. And much regards to a guy who shared that encryption link here.

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Users who posted comments:

Anonymous Hero (1); Beenaround (1); cuba_pete (1); jack of all trades (1); lyn (3); Mike Proctor (1); Mr. small (1); PWSlack (1); Shyam (1); SolarEagle (3); Ukeje (1)

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