Is Recuva safe for end user data?

KeepStronger

Hey everyone! I'm considering using Recuva to recover some deleted files, but I want to make sure it's safe before I dive in. I've read that Piriform, the company behind Recuva, had some security issues in the past, which makes me a bit concerned. Can Recuva still be trusted? Is it safe?? Are there any risks I should be aware of when using it? Also, what's the best way to check if the software is virus-free and that my personal data will stay secure? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any personal experiences, especially if anyone has run into problems or, on the other hand, had success with the program.

SocialImpactCoder

KeepStronger
I've been using Recuva for a few years now, and I can say it's pretty safe 👍. Never had any issues with malware, and the software really does help recover deleted files as well as you can expect from free software. But yeah, I've also heard about some problems with the developers in the past...

Nonprofitech

KeepStronger Recuva is a pretty good tool, but given the history with CCleaner, I totally get your concerns. Personally, I stick to more reliable open-source programs like qPhotoRec. This way, you know it’s safe and works without any hidden features. For antivirus checks, Windows Defender does the job. Plus, there are online antivirus options where you can upload the file for scanning. Their databases are up-to-date, no doubt about that 😄. Here’s one, just click.

KindnessCatalyst

KeepStronger
In my opinion, Recuva is safe to use, but it's important to note that it does collect some data, as mentioned in their privacy policy. If this is a concern for you, it might be worth considering other options. Otherwise, the software performs its task well.

HopeInSleep

KeepStronger
I’ve also used Recuva and had a positive experience with it. The software is easy to use and genuinely safe. However, it’s important to remember that in 2017, there was an issue with another product from the same developers (CCleaner) when one of its updates included malware. They addressed the issue quickly, but the concern lingered. So, if you’re worried, feel free to use Recuva, but make sure to regularly scan your system for viruses, especially after installing or updating the program.

DanyOrtega89

SocialImpactCoder
Totally agree, Recuva does the job, but I’m always a bit extra cautious. Not saying I’m paranoid or anything, but running an antivirus after using any program has become a habit for me. Especially after that whole CCleaner fiasco, ya know?

KeepStronger

Nonprofitech
Thanks for the advice! qPhotoRec definitely sounds like a solid choice, especially from a security standpoint. I really like the idea of using open-source software where you can trust there are no hidden features. The only thing that concerns me a bit is the user-friendliness. How is qPhotoRec in that regard? Is it easy to get the hang of, especially if you haven't used similar programs before? Or would it be better to stick with the more intuitive Recuva, even with some of the risks?

Nonprofitech

KeepStronger
If you're on Windows, check out qPhotoRec (it’s bundled with the photorec exe) - it's basically a UI for that CMD software. But heads up, no UI for Linux or macOS, so you're stuck there. The main drawback? It scans devices and restores data based on file signatures, which comes with some issues: (1) files get recovered without their names or folder structures, and (2) it only restores files it recognizes by their signatures. Unlike other tools that can recover files not just by signatures but also by file system records—those can pretty much bring back anything unless the records are trashed or overwritten. And yeah, it dumps everything into one big folder when it's done. But hey, it's free and open-source, so no complaints there!

7nationArnie

KindnessCatalyst
Hey, it's interesting that you brought up data collection! That's something that worries me too, especially when it comes to recovering personal files. Maybe it's worth looking into some open-source alternatives for real!

OneWire

Hello to all the conspiracy theory enthusiasts! Download the WireShark software and analyze the traffic coming from Recuva. After examining the outgoing packets, you’ll get all the answers you’re looking for.

SocialImpactCoder

OneWire
Yeah, I completely agree with you. I always check the system after installing anyy software. It's good that many antivirus programs now work in real-time and can immediately detect anything suspicious...

KindnessCatalyst

7nationArnie
Yes, that's an important point. Open-source software has the advantage that you can review the code and ensure there are no hidden features. You can check all of this on GitHub. I'd recommend following AP2's advice and trying qPhotoRec—it's less user-friendly, but at least you know exactly what it's doing. Here's the link to their GitHub: Click .

KeepStronger

Thanks for your thoughts, everyone! So, I get that Recuva is safe, but with some caveats. I’ll think about giving it a try, but I’ll definitely keep my antivirus ready and watch out for anything weird.

taras-balyka

Let's summarize what we have so far. Recuva is indeed a safe and convenient tool for file recovery, and it performs well for most tasks. However, some participants still have concerns due to past security issues with other products from these developers and their data collection policy. For those particularly concerned about transparency and security, alternatives like qPhotoRec can be considered.
I'd like to add that there are other reliable programs that might be useful in similar cases. For example, Disk Drill is an excellent solution, available in the official Microsoft and Apple stores, which speaks to its safety and reliability. We even did a review where we thoroughly examined how secure this tool is. Here's the link if you're interested: Link