Issue Description
Files deleted permanently or removed from Trash without backup.
Common Causes
- Emptying Trash
- Shift-delete actions
- Accidental deletion
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Stop Using the Drive
- Do not download or save new files
- Prevent data overwriting
Step 2: Check Recently Deleted (iCloud)
- Open iCloud.com → Drive → Recently Deleted
Step 3: Use macOS Snapshots (If Available)
- Open Disk Utility
- Check for APFS snapshots
Step 4: Use Professional Recovery Software
- Install recovery software on external drive
- Scan affected disk
- Recover files to external storage
Explore Further
- Enable Time Machine going forward
Prevention & Best Practices
Never install recovery tools on the affected drive.