Even if important files and data have been deleted or been corrupted on a hard drive it is still possible to retrieve and recover this data.  Simply because a file is no longer visible does not mean that it no longer exists on the hard drive.  PC utilities are available that can help restore deleted files. The recycle bin is one such utility.  The Recycle bin temporarily stores discarded files until the user either uses the “empty recycle bin” or “restore item” function.

To recover a recycle bin that has been emptied requires a utility such as Recover Recycle Bin.  When a file is permanently deleted by emptying the recycle bin, the “File Allocation Table” or table of contents where all stored files reside on your hard drive.

It's important to note that failure to recover any deleted files from the recycle bin at the first opportunity may result in the permanent loss of those files. So it's advisable to run the recovery program below as soon as possible.

The FAT replaces the first character in the file name with a (?) signifying that the space it once occupied is now available for use.  If the file is not overwritten it still remains hidden on the hard drive.  Data Recovery utility software locates the deleted file list and allows you to rename the file saving it to the directory of your choice.   

In the event that your files are lost because of damage to your computer there is still a chance that these utilities can help restore your recycle bin.  The solution requires that you remove the hard drive and install it into another pc as a slave drive.  You will then be able to access the FAT via the utility software and rename the files restoring them by copying them over to a new primary drive. We've just added a guide on how to recover deleted files to the site.