Diagnose before changing files
Identify the expected copy, product version, password context and last known successful open before attempting repairs.
Handle missing access, wrong copies, version incompatibilities and forgotten-password limitations
Preserve the evidence set
Work on a duplicate during troubleshooting. Do not overwrite the only archive or promise recovery when the password is unavailable.
Test the process with redacted sample material, record the operator and date, and confirm the expected person can recover the correct version.
Respect the control boundary
Does not replace provider permissions, guaranteed backup, password recovery or enterprise identity management. Encryption reduces exposure when configured and used correctly; it does not establish retention law, recipient authority or guaranteed recovery.
Verify the rule and the control
Tax and contractual retention decisions may require qualified professional advice for the reader's jurisdiction and facts.