March 29, 2025, midnight

What to Do When Your Antivirus Deletes a File

Discovering that your antivirus has deleted an important file can be stressful. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to recover the file and prevent future issues.

Check Your Antivirus Quarantine

Most antivirus programs move suspicious files to a quarantine rather than delete them permanently. Open your antivirus software and navigate to the quarantine section. If the file is there, you can restore it and add an exception to prevent future deletions.

Use File Recovery Software

If the file isn't in quarantine, you can try using file recovery software. These programs can scan your drive for deleted files and may be able to restore your lost data. Popular options include Recuva and Disk Drill.

Submit a False Positive Report

If you believe the file was wrongly identified as a threat, submit a false positive report to your antivirus provider. They will analyse the file and update their definitions if it is found to be safe.

Backup Your Files Regularly

To avoid future losses, make a habit of backing up important files. Use an external hard drive or a cloud storage service to ensure your data remains safe even if your antivirus acts up.

Keep Your Software Updated

Ensure both your antivirus and operating system are always up-to-date. Updates often include fixes for bugs and improve the overall accuracy of threat detection.

Use Reliable Antivirus Software

Consider using a well-regarded antivirus program that balances protection with reliability. Research user reviews and expert opinions to find a trustworthy solution.

By following these steps, you can recover your deleted files and prevent such issues from happening again.