Ouch,

Windows 95 does not natively support file encryption, so
either the file is password protected, or a third party
utility is being used.

In any case I would do this:
Determine if the file is password protected or encrypted.
If it is an Office file and it is Password protected,
there are several password cracking utilities on the
market. Be aware that if your receptionist used a "strong"
password, it could take literally years to crack it with a
brute force attack.

If the file is encrypted, find out what utility is being
used to encrypt the file. Then do a google
search "unencrypt Xprogram files" (where Xprogram is the
name of the encryption program). Again, do not hold your
breath, if the encryption is strong, it can take a long
time to break.

How important is the data in this file? You could always
send it off to a "data recovery" specialist (just check
the yellow pages). Be aware that this can be costly and
the results are not guaranteed. It may be best just to ask
the receptionist for the password or key. If an option,
you may want to consult a lawyer and have them send the ex-
receptionist a letter demanding access to this file.

Thanks,
Jeff

window's 95.  How can I unencrypt this file and see what
it is?