Recovering lost files from virus-affected devices can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it is possible to retrieve your data safely and effectively. Viruses can corrupt, hide, or delete your files, but they do not necessarily erase them completely from the device. Below are several key steps and tips on how to recover lost files from virus-affected devices easily and safely.
Stop Using the Infected Device Immediately
The first and most important step is to stop using the infected device as soon as you suspect a virus attack. Continued use of the device may overwrite the deleted or corrupted files, making recovery impossible. Disconnect the device from the internet, as this can prevent the virus from spreading further or downloading additional malicious software. If you are working on a computer, it is best to power it down and use another device to research the recovery steps or download recovery software.
Run a Full Antivirus Scan
Before attempting any recovery, it is essential to run a comprehensive antivirus scan to eliminate the virus or malware. Running a deep scan with reputable antivirus software ensures that the virus is identified and removed. This prevents further damage and also helps you avoid recovering files that might still be infected. There are several antivirus programs available, such as Avast, Malwarebytes, and Norton, which are highly effective for this purpose. If the antivirus software identifies the virus, follow the steps provided to remove it completely before proceeding with recovery.
Check the Recycle Bin
Sometimes, a virus may simply move your files to the Recycle Bin or temporarily hide them instead of permanently deleting them. After running an antivirus scan, check your Recycle Bin Windows or Trash Mac for the missing files. If they are there, simply restore them to their original location. It is a simple solution that can save you time and effort if the files were not permanently removed.
Use File Recovery Software
If the files are not in the Recycle Bin, the next step is to use file recovery software. Programs like Recuva, Ease US Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill are designed to recover deleted or lost files from virus-affected devices. These tools scan your hard drive or external storage devices and attempt to retrieve lost files that have not been overwritten. The process is straightforward: you choose the drive or folder to scan, and the software will display a list of recoverable files. Select the files you want to recover and save them to a different drive to avoid overwriting them.
Seek Professional Help
If the above methods fail or you are dealing with a severe virus infection, it might be best to seek professional data recovery services. How to Recover Data with professional technicians have advanced tools and expertise to recover files from severely damaged or virus-infected devices. However, this option can be costly, so it is typically a last resort if other methods do not work.