---
title: "How would you recover lost files from a system infected by a virus?"  
description: "How would you recover lost files from a system infected by a virus?"  
author: "Rahul Roi"  
published: 2021-01-22  
updated: 2025-01-13  
canonical: https://www.mindstick.com/forum/156391/how-would-you-recover-lost-files-from-a-system-infected-by-a-virus  
category: "hardware technology"  
tags: ["computer science", "hardware & networking", "computer hardware"]  
reading_time: 2 minutes  

---

# How would you recover lost files from a system infected by a virus?

How would you [recover lost](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/92457/recover-lost-email-password-by-roadrunner-email-problems) [files](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/23302/the-importance-and-advantage-of-keeping-your-important-files-on-the-cloud) from a [system](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/23411/the-most-effective-method-to-find-the-perfect-small-business-phone-system-for-your-business) infected by a virus?

## Replies

### Reply by Khushi Singh

To regain lost files in a system that is affected by a virus, one has to do it carefully. First of all, there is a need to unplug the system from the World Wide Web in other not to worsen the situation. Log in with Safe Mode to reduce the actions of the virus. A good antivirus or anti-malware program (such as **Malwarebytes** or **Windows Defender**) should be employed to detect and delete the virus.

If files are hidden, enable hidden files in File Explorer or use the command prompt:

```plaintext
attrib -h -r -s /s /d D:\*.*
```

(Replace `D:\` with the infected drive).

Files may get lost, therefore recommended data recovery software is **Recuva** or **EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard**. It is very important to bring an external drive every time to store all the recovered files. If backups are possible then again copying files from cloud storage or other storage devices or using system restore points.

Once files are recovered, verify system integrity using:

```plaintext
sfc /scannow
chkdsk /f /r
```

For severe infections, consider reinstalling the operating system after securing important files.\
\
To prevent future issues, keep your antivirus updated, avoid suspicious downloads, and maintain regular backups. If the data is critical, consult professional recovery services. Prevention is key to avoiding data loss.


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Original Source: https://www.mindstick.com/forum/156391/how-would-you-recover-lost-files-from-a-system-infected-by-a-virus

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