06/19/2026
If you've accidentally deleted files, here's what to try first (free):
🔍 Step 1 — Check the Recycle Bin. Right-click > Restore. (Yes, this gets missed.)
🔍 Step 2 — Check cloud backups. Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox keep deleted files for 30 days in a Trash folder.
🔍 Step 3 — Try Recuva (free, by Piriform). Download from piriform.com/recuva. Scans your drive for recoverable deleted files. Works surprisingly well for recently deleted items.
🔍 Step 4 — For failing hard drives: STOP using the computer immediately. Do not run Recuva on a physically failing drive — it can accelerate damage. Call a professional.
🔍 Step 5 — For ransomware: Check nomoreransom.org — they offer free decryptors for many ransomware strains.
Data emergency? 📞 520-524-2130 — we respond fast.