A data recovery scam occurs when fraudsters pose as professional data recovery services, claiming they can restore lost files from damaged hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, or even cloud storage. These scammers charge victims upfront fees but either fail to recover any data or steal sensitive information for malicious purposes.
Data loss is a stressful experience—whether it's important work files, cherished family photos, or confidential business records. Cybercriminals take advantage of this desperation, promising fast and affordable solutions, only to deceive victims into paying large sums for services they never actually provide.
How This Can Happen to Us?
Fake data recovery scams can happen to anyone, especially individuals and businesses dealing with accidental deletions, corrupt files, or hardware failures. Scammers target people online, through fake ads, phishing emails, and even phone calls. Here's how they operate:
1. Fake Data Recovery Companies
Scammers create professional-looking websites, offering data recovery services at unusually low prices. They promise fast, 100% guaranteed recovery—something legitimate companies never guarantee. Victims send their devices to these fraudsters, who either:
Claim that recovery is impossible and keep the upfront payment.
Recover the data but demand extra fees before returning it.
Steal sensitive files, such as bank details, passwords, or personal photos, for identity theft or blackmail.
2. Remote Access Scams
Some scammers trick victims into giving remote access to their computers under the pretense of helping them recover files. Once inside, they:
Lock the system with ransomware, demanding money to unlock it.
Install malware or keyloggers to steal login credentials.
Delete files intentionally to convince the victim that only they can recover them.
3. Phishing Emails Offering Recovery Services
Victims receive emails stating that their lost data can be recovered, often from a fake tech support or cloud storage provider. These emails contain:
Links to malicious websites that steal login credentials.
Fake software downloads that infect computers with viruses.
4. Fake Software Downloads
Fraudsters advertise free or paid data recovery software on shady websites. These programs might:
Not work at all and demand payment before "unlocking" recovery.
Infect the victim's system with spyware, stealing personal and financial data.
Example of a Data Recovery Scam
David, a freelance photographer, accidentally deleted an entire folder of wedding photos. Panicked, he searched online and found a website offering fast and guaranteed data recovery for just $50.
He contacted them, and they requested upfront payment and remote access to his laptop. After paying, the scammers locked his files and demanded another $200 to "restore them." When he refused, they erased all his data permanently.
David learned the hard way that not all data recovery services are trustworthy.
How to Protect Yourself from This Scam?
✅ Research Before Using a Data Recovery Service
Look for customer reviews and ratings on platforms like Trustpilot, Better Business Bureau (BBB), or Google Reviews.
Check if the company has a physical address and real customer support.
Avoid companies that guarantee 100% recovery—legitimate firms always assess the situation first.
✅ Never Pay Upfront Without Verification
Scammers often demand full payment before attempting any recovery.
A genuine data recovery service will diagnose the issue first and provide an estimate.
✅ Be Wary of Remote Access Requests
No legitimate company needs remote access to recover lost files from your device.
Never grant remote control unless you fully trust the technician.
✅ Avoid Suspicious Data Recovery Software
Only download recovery tools from official websites, like EaseUS, Recuva, or Stellar Data Recovery.
Be cautious if a tool asks for bank details or personal information before allowing recovery.
✅ Back Up Important Data Regularly
Use external hard drives, cloud storage, or automatic backups to protect your data.
This ensures that even if you lose files, you won’t need a recovery service.