Recover Files Deleted by Virus: Complete Guide

Understanding How Viruses Delete Files

Viruses are sneaky. Some are designed to steal information, while others aim to corrupt or erase files altogether.

Common Types of Viruses That Delete Files

• Trojan horses: Disguise themselves as legit programs but wipe or damage files.
• Worms: Spread rapidly, deleting or overwriting data.
• Ransomware: Encrypts files, making them inaccessible until you pay (and sometimes, even then, you don’t get them back).

Why Do Viruses Target Your Data?

Most malware authors want one of three things: money, disruption, or access to your sensitive information. Destroying or locking your files is one way to achieve that.

Signs Your Files Have Been Deleted by a Virus

Viruses don’t always announce themselves. Watch out for these red flags:

Sudden Missing Files

Folders that were full yesterday are now mysteriously empty.

Unusual Error Messages

Programs may fail to open, claiming files are "missing" or "corrupted".

Slow System Performance

If your computer lags heavily along with missing files, malware might be hogging resources.

Can Deleted Files Be Recovered After a Virus Attack?

Yes! In many cases, deleted files aren’t permanently gone—they’re just marked as “free space” until overwritten. That’s why quick action is critical.

Immediate Steps to Take After Virus Deletion

Before rushing to recover files, secure your system first.

Stop Using the Infected Device

Continuing to use the device risks overwriting recoverable files.

Run a Full Antivirus Scan

Clean the malware first, or your recovered files may just get deleted again.

Disconnect External Devices

If USB drives or external hard disks are attached, disconnect them to prevent the virus from spreading.

5 Methods to Recover Files Deleted by Virus

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to recover files deleted by virus and keep your data safe in the future.

Method 1: Check Recycle Bin or Trash

Many times, a virus might just move or "soft delete" your files. Here’s how you can check:

1. Open Recycle Bin/Trash: Double-click the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac) icon.

2. Look for Missing Files: Browse through the list of deleted items.

3. Restore the File:

• On Windows: Right-click the file > Restore. It goes back to its original location.

• On Mac: Right-click > Put Back to return it to where it was.

4. Search by Name: If you remember the filename, use the search bar to quickly locate it.

Method 2: Restore from Backup

If you’ve set up backups, recovering files is straightforward.

Windows Users (Backup and Restore):

1. Go to Control Panel > Backup and Restore (Windows 7).

2. Click Restore my files.

3. Follow the on-screen wizard to select and restore your missing files.

Mac Users (Time Machine):

1. Open Time Machine.

2. Use the timeline to go back to the date before the virus attack.

3. Select the files > Restore.

Method 3: Use File History or Previous Versions (Windows)

Windows has built-in recovery features if File History or Restore Points were enabled.

1. Navigate to the folder where the deleted file was stored.

2. Right-click on the folder > Restore previous versions.

3. A list of available versions (snapshots) will appear.

4. Choose the version that predates the virus attack.

5. Click Restore or Open to preview before restoring.

Method 4: Use Data Recovery Software

If built-in methods don’t help, a reliable data recovery tool is your best bet. MyRecover is a professional tool specifically designed to help users recover files deleted by virus, accidental deletion, or system crashes.

Why choose MyRecover?

• User-friendly interface.
• Supports multiple file types.
• Works on various storage devices.
• High success rate.

Free Trial
Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7

100% Secure

Steps to Recover Using MyRecover:

1. Download & Install: Get MyRecover from the official site and install it on a clean device (not the infected one).

2. Launch the Program: Open MyRecover and select the infected drive.

3. Run a Scan:

• Quick Scan: For recently deleted files.
• Deep Scan: For files lost due to virus or corruption.

4. Preview Files: The software lets you preview documents, photos, and videos before recovery.

5. Recover & Save: Select your files and click Recover. Save them to a safe drive (not the infected one).
 

In addition to recovering drive data, MyRecover also supports USB and SD data recovery. For example, you can easily complete:

• SDHC card data recovery
• Sony SD card recovery
• PNY SD card recovery
• USB partition recovery

Method 5: Seek Professional Data Recovery Services

If DIY methods fail and the data is priceless (like company records or irreplaceable photos), professional services are the last resort.

Steps to use this option:

1. Stop Using the Device: Prevent further damage or overwriting of files.

2. Contact a Recovery Service: Look for certified data recovery providers near you.

3. Send the Device: Carefully pack and ship your drive or take it to a local recovery lab.

4. Diagnosis: Experts will evaluate the extent of damage and give you a cost estimate.

5. Recovery Process: If you agree, they’ll use advanced tools in cleanroom environments to restore your files.

6.Get Your Data Back: You’ll receive recovered files on a new storage device.

Preventing Future Data Loss from Viruses

Prevention is way easier (and cheaper) than recovery.

Keep Your Antivirus Updated

Outdated antivirus software can’t recognize the latest threats.

Practice Safe Browsing Habits

Avoid sketchy downloads, suspicious emails, and unverified attachments.

Regularly Back Up Your Data

Whether it’s cloud storage or an external drive, regular backups ensure you’re never left helpless.

Conclusion

Losing files to a virus attack is stressful, but it’s not always the end of the road. With quick action and the right tools, you can recover files deleted by virus effectively. Just remember: once you’ve saved your data, put strong protections in place so it doesn’t happen again.