saving files, infected system before clean reinstall


  1. Posts : 1,442
    Windows 7 Professional 64bit
       #1

    saving files, infected system before clean reinstall


    Let's say someone brings me a computer with a bunch of malware and viruses on it. What's the best way to save their files and pictures (before doing a clean install) with out the malware infecting the external HDD I use?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 1,030
    Linux Mint / XP / Win7 Home, Pro, Ultimate / Win8.1 / Win10
       #2

    Depends on the infection. Some infect specific file types so those would need to be cleaned up first.

    I use a bootable DVD with Linux and AV programs to do the clean up then copy the files to a blank flash drive. I guess you could do some work in their original Window after loading the appropriate AV programs. Once cleaned up then copy to a flash drive.

    I'm sure you will get more ideas here.

    Regards,
    GEWB
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 1,442
    Windows 7 Professional 64bit
    Thread Starter
       #3

    I was watching youtube videos about badly infected PC's and just doing a reinstall instead of spending the time to clean out any malware. I wasn't sure if booting into safe mode was sufficient.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 1,030
    Linux Mint / XP / Win7 Home, Pro, Ultimate / Win8.1 / Win10
       #4

    Depends on how important the user files are to save. Do some search/research to find a live Linux version that has AV to clean Windows - I know it's out there.

    Regards,
    GEWB
      My Computer


 

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