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Can Antivirus Scan Encrypted Files?
Without decryption, nothing can access an encrypted file
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
One of the best methods to keep files safe and prevent unauthorized access is through file encryption. Encrypted files are converted into a secret code known only to designated recipients. However, some of our readers have asked if antivirus can scan encrypted files.
Hence, this article will provide relevant information on whether an antivirus can scan encrypted files on your Windows PC.
What is an encrypted file?
An encrypted file is a file that has been transformed using encryption algorithms to protect sensitive information stored in the file from unauthorized access or view. Also, some other factors to note about an encrypted file are:
Now that you know what an encrypted file is, let’s proceed to how to decrypt an encrypted file.
Can antivirus scan encrypted files?
No, the antivirus is not capable of scanning encrypted files. Encrypted data is designed to remain inaccessible to anyone without the encryption key.
To that effect, only the person with the decryption key can access the file’s contents. Since your antivirus does not know the key, it cannot read oropen the encrypted file.
How do I decrypt an encrypted file?
Before engaging in any solution, you should consider performing the following:
Check the steps below if you still have issues decrypting a file.
1. Decrypt files using Command Prompt
This works if you previously encrypted the file using the Cipher command and you’re using the exact same PC and copy of Windows as you did when you encrypted it.
2. Via file properties
How secure are the encrypted files?
The first line of truth is there’s no perfect security. A tech-savvy individual with the necessary resources (time, the key, and a strong motive) can crack an encrypted file. However, the buffer can be challenging to break into an encrypted file.
The security of an encrypted file depends on the following factors:
Generally, well-implemented encryption provides a high level of security, making it extremely difficult for unauthorized individuals or third-party tools to access the file’s contents.
And that’s it on how antivirus can scan encrypted files. You can work your way through any of the solutions provided above.
Also,if you can’t decrypt files on Windows 10, check our detailed guide on simple steps to do that.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please use the comments section below.
More about the topics:antivirus,file encryption
Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts.
Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you’ll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.
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Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a tech enthusiast who tackles mobility, privacy, and networking in easy-to follow guides for everyone.
