Microsoft Windows OS Error Code 0xC0000275: How to Fix It

Easy 10-20 minutes Medium Severity Verified July 2026
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Error Code
0xC0000275
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-20 minutes
Error 0xC0000275, also known as STATUS_NOT_AN_EFS_FILE, occurs when Windows tries to perform an operation on a file that is not encrypted with the Encrypting File System (EFS). This often happens when using encryption tools or when accessing files from a backup. It indicates the file lacks EFS attributes.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0xC0000275

  1. Check File Encryption Status

  2. Back Up Important Data

    Always back up important files before modifying encryption settings.

  3. Remove EFS Encryption

  4. Use Cipher Command to Decrypt

    Running commands incorrectly can cause data loss. Double-check the file path.

  5. Reset File Attributes

  6. Perform System File Check

    Restart your computer after the scan completes.
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When to Call a Professional

If you encounter persistent errors after trying all steps, or if you need to recover encrypted files without the original certificate, contact a data recovery specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0xC0000275 mean?
It means the file or folder you're trying to access is not encrypted with Windows EFS, so Windows cannot perform the requested encryption operation.
How do I know if a file is EFS encrypted?
Right-click the file, go to Properties > Advanced. If 'Encrypt contents to secure data' is checked, it's EFS-encrypted. Also, encrypted files often appear green in File Explorer.
Can I fix error 0xC0000275 without losing data?
Yes, by removing encryption or using the cipher command. However, always backup your data first to prevent accidental loss.
Why do I see this error when copying files from a backup?
Backups may preserve EFS attributes. If the file wasn't originally encrypted, the attribute might be incorrectly set, causing the error.
Is there a way to avoid this error in the future?
Only use EFS encryption on files you intend to keep encrypted. When transferring files, ensure encryption attributes are properly cleared or applied.

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