How to get deleted files back from usb​？

From backing up cherished family photos to transporting critical business documents, USB drives offer a convenient and portable way to store information. But their ease of use also comes with an inherent vulnerability: accidental file deletion.

Have you ever plugged in your USB drive only to discover that important files have vanished? Maybe you deleted them by mistake while organizing folders. Perhaps a system crash or virus attack caused data corruption. Or, maybe you removed the USB stick too quickly, triggering file system errors. Regardless of the cause, the sinking feeling that accompanies file loss can be overwhelming.

Chapter 1: USB File Deletion

Before diving into recovery methods, it’s important to understand what actually happens when a file is deleted from a USB flash drive.

1.1 File Deletion vs. Permanent Deletion

When you delete a file from a USB:

Unlike files deleted on your computer’s internal drive, files deleted from a USB drive typically bypass the Recycle Bin or Trash.

Deletion flags the space as free, but the file content remains on the drive until overwritten.

1.2 Common Causes of USB File Deletion

Accidental Deletion: Clicking the wrong file or folder and hitting “Delete.”

Format or Reformat: Erasing all data during a quick or full format.

Virus/Malware: Some viruses delete or hide files.

Corruption: File system errors due to improper ejection or power loss.

Human Error: Mistakenly thinking files are backed up and deleting them.

1.3 Can Deleted Files Be Recovered?

Yes, but success depends on:

Whether new data has overwritten the deleted files.

The health of the USB drive.

The recovery method and tools used.

Chapter 2: Preparing for USB File Recovery (Approx. 300 Words)

Before attempting recovery, take the following steps to maximize your chances of success:

2.1 Stop Using the USB Drive Immediately

Every new file or write operation increases the risk of overwriting your deleted files.

2.2 Avoid Formatting or Running Disk Repair Tools

Don’t let Windows or Mac prompt you to format or fix the drive; this could worsen data loss.

2.3 Use a Write-Protected Adapter (Optional)

If available, use a USB adapter with a write-protection switch to prevent accidental overwriting.

Chapter 3: Recover Deleted Files Using File Recovery Software

Panda Assistant is a reliable and user-friendly data recovery tool designed to help you retrieve lost or deleted files from a wide range of devices. Whether you’re dealing with an accidental deletion, formatted drive, corrupted USB stick, or missing folder, Panda Assistant makes recovery simple and stress-free.

With just a few clicks, Panda Assistant scans your storage devices including USB drives, external hard drives, memory cards, and internal disks to locate and restore lost documents, photos, videos, audio files, and more. Its intuitive interface is perfect for users of all skill levels, from beginners to tech professionals.

Chapter 4: Restore Files Using CMD (Windows Only)

Advanced users can try the Command Prompt to recover files from a USB stick.

4.1 Using ATTRIB Command

Plug in your USB drive.

Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.

Type the following command:

bash

attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.*

Replace X: with your USB’s drive letter.

Explanation:

-h: Removes hidden file attribute.

-r: Removes read-only attribute.

-s: Removes system file attribute.

This command can reveal hidden files, including those hidden by malware. It doesn’t recover permanently deleted files, but it’s worth trying.

Chapter 5: Using File History or Backups

If you previously backed up your USB contents or copied them to another location:

5.1 File History (Windows 10/11)

Open Control Panel > File History.

If you backed up your USB, browse for the deleted file and restore it.

5.2 Time Machine (Mac)

If you used Time Machine and backed up external drives:

Connect your Time Machine drive.

Open Time Machine.

Navigate to the USB folder and restore the file.

5.3 Cloud Services

Check Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive for synced versions of your USB files.

Chapter 6: Professional Data Recovery Services

If DIY tools fail and your files are extremely valuable, consider a professional recovery service.

What They Offer:

Cleanroom technology for physical damage.

Advanced tools for NAND chip-level recovery.

When to Use:

The USB drive is physically damaged.

Data recovery software cannot detect the drive.

You accidentally formatted the drive and failed to recover anything.

Top Services:

DriveSavers

Ontrack

Secure Data Recovery

These services can be expensive, so weigh the cost against the value of your lost files.

Chapter 7: Tips to Prevent Future USB Data Loss

7.1 Always Eject Safely

Use “Safely Remove Hardware” to prevent file system corruption.

7.2 Regular Backups

Copy important USB files to a computer or cloud storage.

7.3 Use Antivirus Software

Protect your USB from malware and autorun viruses.

7.4 Avoid Frequent Plug/Unplug Cycles

Reduce wear and tear on USB connectors.

7.5 Use High-Quality USB Drives

Cheap USBs often have unreliable memory chips.

7.6 Keep Recovery Software Installed

Having a recovery tool installed in advance saves critical time.

Losing files from a USB drive is undoubtedly frustrating, but the good news is that in many cases, recovery is entirely possible—especially if you act quickly. Whether you accidentally deleted a file, encountered a corrupted USB stick, or lost data during a format, there are a variety of reliable tools and methods to help you retrieve your files.

Start with basic recovery software like Recuva or EaseUS, and don’t overlook free options like PhotoRec for advanced recovery needs. For more tech-savvy users, CMD commands can help unhide hidden files caused by malware. And if you’re in a pinch and nothing works, professional recovery services can offer a last resort, especially for physically damaged drives.

Most importantly, let this experience be a lesson in data preservation. Implement regular backups, use trusted hardware, and protect your devices from malware. With the right precautions, you can avoid the stress of data loss in the future.