Time Machine files > back to my computer issues

Hello, I have this small problem.

I recently reinstalled OS X and I didn't want to use Time Machine anymore. At least for now.

Now I have these files on my external drive (previously backed up files with TM) and I just figured I'll drop them on my desktop and be done with it.

So I did, and now, it seems I have mixed access to these files, every time I try to move them or delete them or whatever, Finder asks for my password. Aperture won't import pictures, iTunes won't import music.

So I checked the permissions, I edited out the main folder to have Read+Write access, but still no dice.

I even tried singling out a jpg file, editing its permissions, and then when I close the window, they're back to the original.

It's driving me nuts. What can I do to free up my Time Machine files?

Cheers!

 

Time Machine backups are meant to be accessed through the Time Machine app on the computer from which it is backed up, although a different Mac will also be able to access the backup with the right credentials.

Attempting to access a Time Machine backup through Finder or other app is not recommended and will cause problems, as you have seen.
The best way for you to be able to use those files is to use Time Machine and copy everything to your local disk, to another drive, or to a partition on your external drive.