Recovering files after a virus attack can feel daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it is often possible. As someone who has dealt with several virus attacks over the years, I want to share what I’ve learned about trying to get files back.
How Viruses Damage and Encrypt Files
Viruses infect computers in different ways, but two of the most common things they do are:
- Encrypt files so you can no longer open them
- Corrupt or partially delete files
Encryption is often the worst, because it can completely scramble files beyond recovery unless you have the decryption key. Partial deletion or corruption is better in some ways, because it often means files still exist on your hard drive, they are just damaged.
So the first key question after any virus attack is – were my files encrypted, deleted, or corrupted? Knowing this guides your recovery approach.
Recovering Corrupted or Deleted Files
If a virus has corrupted or partially deleted files, recovery is often possible with file recovery software. The key is to avoid writing new data to your hard drive, as that overwrites deleted file fragments.
Some steps I take:
- Disconnect the infected hard drive from my PC to avoid overwriting data
- Use a bootable USB with antivirus tools to clean any virus still active
- Attach the hard drive externally to another “clean” PC
- Scan the drive with data recovery software like Recuva or EaseUS
- This will find and restore recoverable file fragments
Results vary based on how much data was overwritten, but I’ve had excellent success recovering files using this approach. The key is moving quickly to avoid losing file fragments.
Decrypting Encrypted Files
If a virus has encrypted your files, recovery is tougher but can sometimes be achieved. There are two main approaches:
- Pay the ransom – Not recommended, but some newer ransomware provides working decryption tools after paying. Always a last resort.
- Find a decryption tool – Security companies like Kaspersky release some free decryption tools for major ransomware strains. Check if one exists for the virus you had.
Also important – don’t save new data to the infected drive. Encrypted data is still there, just scrambled. Overwriting the drive means it’s gone forever.
I once recovered thousands of encrypted photos using a decryption tool from Kaspersky for the WannaCry virus. You never know what might be out there.
When Files Are Unrecoverable
Despite our best efforts, sometimes files remain encrypted or deleted beyond repair. At that point, all hope is not necessarily lost. Consider:
- Cloud backups – If you have backups in the cloud, you can restore from there.
- Local backups – Any backups on external hard drives may still have your files.
- Email attachments – If you emailed files to someone, you can get them back.
- Redownloads – For software, music, video, etc, redownload or reinstall them.
Take inventory of what types of files you lost. You may be able to get backups or copies from other sources.
Key Takeaways on Recovering from Viruses
Here are some key tips on trying to recover files after a virus attack:
- Move quickly to stop overwriting deleted/encrypted file fragments. Time is critical.
- Disconnect infected drives and use recovery tools from a clean system.
- Encrypted files require specialized decryption tools – seek these out through security companies.
- If all else fails, pursue backups and alternative sources like the cloud or emails.
While daunting, with persistence and the right tools, there is a chance of recovering files from even nasty virus attacks. Don’t give up hope until you’ve exhausted your options! Let me know if you have any other questions.
