Q: Time Machine "don't have permission" for old files – do NOT have old computer anymore
So I am trying to retrieve a file from an old time machine backup from my old computer. However, I keep getting a message on all the folders that I do not have permission to view them (they also have the little "do not enter/NO" symbol). I ended up creating a new user when I got my new computer, so I am aware that time machine believes those backups were created by someone else. Problem is, I do not have my old computer anymore.
I have been able to access some of the permissions for the folders via command+i (more information); is there some way I can manipulate this and give my new user access to the files? Or could I use the time machine backups to recreate my old user on my new computer? Or is there some code I can enter into terminal??
PLEASE, someone help me! I really need to access these old files. I've added an image to show my setup and where I am having these issues.
MacBook Pro (Retina, Mid 2012), Mac OS X (10.7.5)
Posted on Jan 26, 2014 7:29 PM
So, I believe I found the solution with some of your help.
I went to the folders I want to open in the finder for the old computer backups, and hit command+i for more info, and hit the lock on the bottom right to unlock it. I added my new user to the permissions at the bottom. Before, this appeared to have done nothing. But I restarted my computer and then it worked!
THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH for all you help! I was ready to pull my hair out. I am glad there are such helpful people like you on these forums.
Posted on Jan 26, 2014 11:10 PM

