saving files, infected system before clean reinstall

[HAVOC]

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?

 

[GEWB]

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

 

[HAVOC]

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.

 

[GEWB]

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