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Deleted Programs/Documents from Desktop

Anonymous
2020-04-27T03:44:48+00:00

This may be a little long-winded, so bare with me.

I have Windows 10. My desktop is set up such that it consisted mostly of folders-inside those folders were shortcuts for programs, a lot of important word documents, etc. Somewhat recently I had an issue where my computer got stuck in a boot loop, and after taking it to local PC technicians discovered that my Windows had been partially corrupted since purchase (June last year) and they fixed the PC. My documents were all safe and still there, it was just programs that had to be reinstalled (the shortcuts for those programs nonetheless remained in the desktop folders).

Since this, I had issues attempting to get a particular VPN program to install properly, despite rebooting the computer several times as instructed. Thinking I would uninstall it and a attempt a re-download and re-installation, last Wednesday, I went into my apps and uninstalled the VPN program. While in apps, I noticed several game programs I thought were unnecessary and proceeded to also uninstall-specifically, Microsoft Solitaire, Farm Heroes Saga, and Kandy Krush...Something. After deleting all four programs I went to my desktop and...noticed the folders seemed empty.

All documents, all program shortcuts, almost everything that was in those folders appeared to have been deleted. Somehow, some way. I immediately performed a Malwarebytes scan to see if I had some kind of virus (with the exception of one program saved specifically to the desktop, only shortcuts were deleted, not the programs themselves). The result was clean. I considered a System Restore, but after realising that didn't affect documents or personal files I believed it to be pointless. I went into my Recycle Bin to see if everything was in there, and all that was in there were a few files deleted at the most recent three days prior. I should also mention that despite declaring after the boot loop issue was fixed that I would backup all my data in future just in case, I never got around to doing so.

In my desperation, I found EaseUS Data Recovery and paid the $130-odd AUD for the pro version. I began combing through the recycle bin (among other locations the program discovered), and found  everything deleted from the desktop. I elected to recover things one folder at a time. Starting with one documents folder, I attempted to open the recovered files...only to find them corrupted and, upon actually finding a way to look at them, they appeared to be complete gibberish. I researched for ways to 'repair' the documents, but nothing seemed to work. As of now, I am left with hundred of hours of work unreadable and I do not know if there's a chance this may happen again.

So ultimately, I have two questions:

  1. How did the deletion of any of those four programs affect my desktop in any way, and delete all pretty much anything that wasn't nailed down?
  2. How can I repair my documents, or bring back their original versions?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Files, folders, and storage

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  1. Anonymous
    2020-04-27T04:05:58+00:00

    Hi JC. I'm Greg, an installation specialist, 10 year Windows MVP, and Volunteer Moderator. If you will work with me I will be here to help until the issue is resolved.

    There is nothing about deleting files using the Uninstall button in Apps Settings that could cause your files to be deleted.

    When files disappear from the desktop they can often be found on the C:\User\Public\Desktop folder. Sometimes that can become hidden so to unhide the Public folders go there and choose View tab, tick the box to Show Hidden Files.

    Otherwise I have no idea why. If it had been a Version Update you could look in C:\Windows.old. They may have gotten misfiled which could explain why they were found by the paid recovery app. It's always best to do copious searches for missing file names and key words in the Search box as one will show up if they are there at all, so you can right click to Show File Location.

    Your files should always be backed up because a hard drive can die at any time without notice. Some suggestions to help ease into this habit:

    1. You can sync your Desktop, Documents and Pictures folder using OneDrive Backup, or just drag valuable files into OneDrive folder, offering 5gb free with additional space for cheap: https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/116029-turn...
    2. Google Drive has a new Backup that allows you to choose User folders (Documents, Pictures, etc.) to sync up to 15gb for free to their cloud in real time so it always has the latest version. https://www.google.com/intl/en-GB_ALL/drive/dow...
    3. In addition I'd have an on-site hard copy backup. The best way to do this is to sort all of your files into their User folders and then drag or copy them to another hard drive, USB external or flash drive. Here's how to drag, copy or move large groups of files: https://www.pcworld.com/article/2086566/the-man...
    4. Besides your files you should save a System Image back up to use in place of reinstall in 20 minutes. The best free alternative is Macrium: http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/7363/macrium-ref... You can even use the Macrium program to mount and extract files from this image so it can serve as both image and file backup too.

    I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and let us know how it goes. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

    ______________________________________________

    Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

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