Data loss can happen at any time due to accidental deletion, hardware failure, malware attacks, formatting errors, or physical damage. Whether you’re trying to recover photos from a broken smartphone, a RAW USB drive, or a deleted file from your computer, there are ways to retrieve your lost data.
This guide covers how to recover data from different devices and what steps you can take to maximize the chances of successful data recovery.
1. How to Recover Data from a Smartphone with a Broken Screen
Step 1: Determine the Condition of the Phone
Before attempting recovery, check:
- Is the display still visible? If you can partially see the screen, it will be easier to extract data.
- Is the touchscreen responsive? If the screen detects touch input, you can use it to unlock and back up your data.
If the screen is completely unresponsive or black, you will need external tools to recover the data.
Step 2: Connect to a Computer via USB
- For Android devices:
- If USB debugging was previously enabled, connect the phone to a computer and transfer data manually.
- If USB debugging is not enabled, use scrcpy, ADB commands, or Samsung Smart Switch (for Samsung users).
- For iPhones:
- Use iTunes or Finder to access files if the device is trusted.
- If backups were enabled, retrieve data from iCloud or iTunes backup.
Step 3: Use an OTG Adapter and External Mouse
If the touchscreen is unresponsive, use an OTG (On-The-Go) adapter to connect a mouse. This allows you to unlock the phone and transfer data.
Step 4: Mirror the Phone Screen to a Computer
If the screen is broken but the phone is functional, you can mirror the screen using:
- Vysor (for Android)
- ApowerMirror (for iOS and Android)
Step 5: Use Professional Data Recovery Software
If the phone is damaged beyond normal access, use data recovery software like:
- Dr.Fone – Data Recovery
- iMobie PhoneRescue
- Tenorshare UltData
2. How to Recover Data from a RAW USB Drive
A RAW USB drive means the file system is corrupted, making the data inaccessible. When Windows asks you to “format the drive”, DO NOT format it, as this may overwrite your files.
Method 1: Use CHKDSK to Repair the USB Drive
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type: shCopyEdit
chkdsk X: /f(Replace ‘X’ with the drive letter of the USB.) - If successful, the drive should be accessible again.
Method 2: Convert RAW to NTFS/FAT Without Formatting
If CHKDSK fails, try using the built-in Windows Disk Management:
- Open Run (Win + R) → Type “diskmgmt.msc”
- Locate the RAW USB drive → Right-click → Assign a drive letter
- If data is still inaccessible, use third-party tools like:
- EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
- Recuva
- R-Studio
Method 3: Use RAW USB Data Recovery Software
If the above methods fail, use RAW USB recovery software such as:
- MiniTool Power Data Recovery
- Disk Drill
- Wondershare Recoverit
3. How to Choose a Reliable Computer Forensics Company
If the data loss involves legal or corporate-level digital evidence, hiring a computer forensics company is essential. Here’s what to look for:
1. Industry Certifications
Top forensic firms should have certifications like:
- Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)
- Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)
- GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
2. Experience in Your Specific Needs
Find a company specializing in:
- Mobile device forensics
- Automotive data forensics
- Forensic accounting
- E-discovery & litigation support
3. Legal Expertise
Ensure they have legal professionals who can handle court-admissible evidence.
4. Why Don’t Data Recovery Companies List Prices Online?
Unlike other IT services, data recovery pricing is highly variable. Here’s why companies don’t list fixed prices:
1. Every Data Recovery Case is Different
- Some recoveries take minutes (e.g., accidentally deleted files).
- Others take weeks (e.g., physically damaged hard drives).
2. Remote Evaluations Aren’t Always Accurate
- Customers may misdiagnose the issue, leading to inaccurate quotes.
- A professional examination is required to determine the actual cost.
3. The Severity of Data Loss Varies
- Simple software recoveries may cost $50–$200.
- Hardware-based recoveries (e.g., dead SSDs) can cost $500–$3000.
Most companies offer a free initial evaluation to determine whether the data can be recovered.
5. How to Recover Deleted Photos from a Hard Drive
If you accidentally deleted photos, stop using the hard drive immediately to prevent overwriting.
Method 1: Check the Recycle Bin
- If the file is still in the Recycle Bin, right-click and select Restore.
Method 2: Use Previous Versions (Windows)
- Right-click the folder where the photos were stored.
- Select Restore previous versions.
Method 3: Use Data Recovery Software
If the photos are permanently deleted, use:
- EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
- Recuva
- Disk Drill
Method 4: Use a Professional Data Recovery Service
For physically damaged drives, take the disk to a professional data recovery lab.
6. How to Recover Data from a USB Flash Drive for Free
If you’ve lost data on a USB flash drive, follow these steps:
Step 1: Stop Using the USB Drive
Any new data written to the drive can overwrite lost files, making them unrecoverable.
Step 2: Use Free Data Recovery Software
- Recuva (Windows)
- TestDisk & PhotoRec (Windows/Mac/Linux)
- MiniTool Power Data Recovery Free
Step 3: Scan and Recover Lost Files
- Connect the USB drive.
- Launch the recovery software.
- Select the USB drive → Start scanning.
- Preview and restore the lost files.
Final Thoughts: Preventing Future Data Loss
To avoid future data loss, follow these best practices:
✅ Enable automatic cloud backups (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive).
✅ Use external hard drives for extra backups.
✅ Be careful when formatting or deleting files.
✅ Use antivirus software to prevent malware attacks.
✅ Use SSDs instead of HDDs (SSDs are more durable).
By following these methods, you can increase your chances of successfully recovering lost data and prevent future data loss.
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