Steps to Recover .EFS Files After a Virus or Malware Infection

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .EFS file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

Steps to Recover .EFS Files After a Virus or Malware Infection
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .EFS file?

Audio file format used by the SQ-80, a synthesizer released by Ensoniq in 1987

What Are Common Causes of ".EFS" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes of ".EFS" (Encrypted File System) files lost or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete the ".EFS" files while managing their files or folders, leading to their loss.
  2. File system corruption: If the file system on the storage device gets corrupted, it can result in the loss or failure of ".EFS" files.
  3. Hardware failure: Issues with the storage device, such as a hard drive failure or bad sectors, can cause ".EFS" files to become inaccessible or lost.
  4. Software or system errors: Errors in the operating system or encryption software can lead to the loss or failure of ".EFS" files.
  5. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can corrupt or delete ".EFS" files, making them unrecoverable.
  6. Formatting or reinstallation: If a user formats the storage device or reinstalls the operating system without proper backup, it can result in the loss of ".EFS" files.
  7. Improper encryption or decryption: If the encryption or decryption process is not performed correctly, it can cause the ".EFS" files to become unreadable or inaccessible.
  8. Power outage or sudden system shutdown: Unexpected power outages or system shutdowns during the encryption or decryption process can lead to the loss or failure of ".EFS" files.

It is important to regularly back up ".EFS" files to prevent permanent loss in case of any of these situations.

How to recover lost ".EFS" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".EFS" file may be deleted.

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🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".EFS" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".EFS" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".EFS" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
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Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".EFS" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".EFS" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo ensoniq SQ-80 File image file file?

Programs that open ".EFS" files

Windows
HEX Editor HEX Editor

Additional Information

  • File type: Ensoniq SQ-80 File

  • File extension: .EFS

  • Developer: N/A

  • Category: Audio Files

  • Format: N/A

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 16:29 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .EFS files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What is ".EFS Recovery" and how does it work?

    ".EFS Recovery" refers to the process of recovering encrypted files from an Encrypting File System (EFS) on a Windows operating system. EFS is a feature provided by Windows that allows users to encrypt individual files and folders to protect their data.

    When files or folders are encrypted using EFS, they are secured with a unique encryption key associated with the user's account. This encryption key is itself encrypted with the user's EFS certificate, which is typically stored in the user's Windows user profile.

    In case of data loss or file corruption, the ".EFS Recovery" process involves recovering the encrypted files by restoring the user's EFS certificate and encryption key. This can be achieved through various methods:

    1. Data Backup: If the user has a backup of the EFS certificate and encryption key, they can restore it to regain access to the encrypted files.
    2. Recovery Agent: Windows allows the use of a designated recovery agent, typically an administrator, who can decrypt encrypted files on behalf of the user. The recovery agent's certificate and key can be used to recover the encrypted files.
    3. Data Recovery Software: There are specialized data recovery tools available that can scan the file system and attempt to recover encrypted files. These tools attempt to locate the EFS certificate and encryption key to decrypt the files.

    It is important to note that the success of ".EFS Recovery" depends on the availability of the necessary encryption keys or certificates. If these are not accessible, the recovery process may not be possible, and the encrypted files may remain inaccessible. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain proper backups and ensure the safekeeping of EFS certificates and encryption keys to avoid data loss.

  • How can I recover files encrypted with the ".EFS" extension?

    Recovering files encrypted with the ".EFS" extension can be challenging as it indicates that the files have been encrypted using the Windows Encrypting File System (EFS). Here are a few steps you can try to recover your encrypted files:

    1. Check for file backups: If you have a backup of your files, either through a cloud service, external storage device, or system restore point, restore the files from there.
    2. Check for EFS recovery certificates: EFS uses recovery certificates to decrypt files. If you have a recovery certificate, you can use it to recover your encrypted files. To do this:
    • Open the "Certificates" snap-in by pressing Windows key + R, typing "mmc," and pressing Enter.
    • Go to "File" -> "Add/Remove Snap-in," select "Certificates," and click "Add."
    • Choose "Computer account" and click "Next," then select "Local computer" and click "Finish."
    • Navigate to "Certificates (Local Computer)" -> "Personal" -> "Certificates."
    • Look for any certificates with a key icon indicating they are recovery certificates. If you find one, export it and use it to decrypt your files.
    1. Try using a data recovery tool: There are specialized data recovery tools available that may be able to recover encrypted files. These tools scan your storage device for deleted or lost files and attempt to recover them. Some popular data recovery tools include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.
    2. Consult a professional: If the above methods do not work, consider consulting a professional data recovery service. They have advanced tools and expertise to recover encrypted files in more complex scenarios. However, professional services can be costly.

    Remember, the success of file recovery depends on various factors such as the encryption strength, availability of recovery certificates, and the condition of the storage device. It is always recommended to maintain regular backups to prevent data loss.

  • Are there any specific tools or software available for ".EFS Recovery"?

    Yes, there are several tools and software available for EFS (Encrypting File System) recovery. Some popular ones include:

    1. Passware Kit Forensic: This tool is designed to recover encrypted files and passwords from various sources, including EFS. It supports a wide range of file formats and encryption algorithms.
    2. Elcomsoft Forensic Disk Decryptor: This software allows for the decryption of encrypted disks and files, including those protected by EFS. It can recover EFS-encrypted files even if the original account or user certificate is no longer available.
    3. Advanced EFS Data Recovery: This tool is specifically designed for recovering encrypted files from NTFS partitions using EFS. It can recover files even if the original user account or certificate is lost.
    4. AccessData FTK: This forensic software includes a feature for EFS recovery, allowing users to access and recover encrypted files protected by EFS.
    5. GetDataBack: This data recovery software can be used to recover encrypted files from NTFS partitions, including those protected by EFS.

    It's important to note that using these tools may require technical expertise and proper authorization to access encrypted files. It's recommended to consult with a professional or legal expert before attempting any EFS recovery.
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