Mach4 have been contacted on several occasions by customers that have taken their computers into PC World for repairs and upgrades and have lost their valuable data.
The latest customer had taken their PC into PC World for a motherboard replacement, on return, the PC worked fine, but all data and programmes were missing from the hard disk. PC World had overwritten the original operating system and data sectors of the hard disk and the data was irretrievable. Evidently, the customer had inadvertently signed a disclaimer warning them of data loss, but was not aware of the implications. The hard drive was not defective before or after the motherboard replacement.
Mach4 ALWAYS back up customer data before undertaking major repairs or upgrades and explain to our valued customers that, when a reinstallation of the operating system is necessary, they will not lose their valuable documents, music and digital image files, but will have to reinstall programmes with the original software, or download new software using their customer log-in on the vendor site.
Our examination of the hard disk confirmed that the data had been overwritten and, unfortunately, was not recoverable.
Regular back-up of valuable data onto an external device is recommended, particularly when taking the computer in for major repair, if this is not possible, customers should confirm with the technician that data will be retrieved and backed up prior to carrying out work on their computer. Of course such action is not necessary with Mach4 who will always work to the needs of the customer.
Data can be lost when the media that it is stored on fails, but can often be retrieved from corrupt hard drives, CDs, DVDs, memory cards and flash (USB) drives.
There are a variety of methods for this, the most complex being the dismantling and reconstruction of hard drives under laboratory conditions, the simplest being retrieval through specialist software. Neither method is quick, but both can be effective and save our customers many hours (or days) of work in rebuilding their databases or re-entering their tax returns!
Part of the process is to scan the corrupt media for malware, such as virus infection as, if corrupt files are transferred to the new drive, the problem will repeat itself when the file is accessed.
Contact Mach4 for estimates for recovery and sanitisation of your lost data.
A customer contacted Mach4 at 4 a.m. with an XP Pro system that refused to boot, even in safe mode. The system was corrupted with 3 Trojans and a difficult to remove virus.
The hard disk was removed and all of the customer’s valuable professional data recovered and sanitised within 48 hours, saving the customer hundreds of hours of image retrieval and creation for their own professional sales sites.
A new XP Pro PC system was built with full design and build consultation. The customers requirements for a low-cost, high quality, upgradeable and futureproof system, including a new 19″ XGA DVI monitor were met for under £350!!! Add to this the reinstallation of the customer’s valuable data, personal delivery, set up and connection to broadband ready to recommence trading online and 3 months telephone helpline support.
Mach4 always try to exceed customer expectations. We want you to come back for all of your computer needs at an affordable price at your convenience.
120GB recovered from a failed external hard drive for under £100!!!
The drive was removed and reinstalled in a caddy and, using specialist software, we were able to recover almost 100% of the clients data and install it onto a new external drive (supplied by the client).
The client was unable to find any other local computer services that would accept the task, but we only charged for time, unlike other companies who charge by the GigaByte!!
The client was so pleased that they supplied us with a box of chocolates and a bottle of wine; this warrants a discount the next time they use us!!
