Automated Windows 10 updates deleted all my documents and files

Anonymous
2018-01-08T00:24:54+00:00

I am in a state of shock. I was already using windows 10 and last night automated updates started without allowing me to stop them. This morning my computer is cleaned out with all thosevery important document deleted!!! Microsoft can do that??? How can I recover them ALL?????

John

Moved from: Windows / Windows 10 / Windows update, recovery, & backup

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Files, folders, and storage

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments No comments

235 answers

Sort by: Most helpful
  1. Anonymous
    2018-05-23T09:31:01+00:00

    Having exactly the same issue as SsBbCA.... The update was pushed out and now there is a black screen with only the recycle bin showing. No access to any other parts of the computer. All attempts to troubleshoot have been thwarted.... Hopefully if enough people have the problem, Microsoft might do something? 

    I found this site which suggests creating a new user login, however it didn't work for me, maybe it will work for someone else - https://www.addictivetips.com/windows-tips/fix-c-windows-system32-config-systemprofile-desktop-is-unavailable-on-windows-10-1803-login/

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  2. Anonymous
    2018-05-22T23:03:53+00:00

    Hi TwylaErickson,

    Windows update is intended to fix issues and add enhancements by replacing current with the new downloaded files. On the other hand, upgrade is for adding features, functionalities, etc. To secure your current system files and settings during the upgrade process, Windows will create a backup named windows.old, so that you can perform a rollback just in case something goes wrong or if there is a compatibility issue. Therefor, both processes should not delete any of your files. There is a possibility that your files have been moved to a different storage location, you were logged on with a temporary profile or during the upgrade process, you've selected not to keep your files and setting. In addition to that, virus/malware attack and a faulty hardware may also cause data loss. Please perform the following methods to check or retrieve your files.

    Method 1: Check if you are signed in with a temporary profile.

    Select Start  > Settings  > Accounts  > Sync your settings . If you see a message at the top that states You are logged on with a temporary profile. Roaming options are currently unavailable, restart your PC and sign in again. This should remove the temporary account and your files should be available again.

    Method 2: Look for the files using search.

    Select the search box on the taskbar and search for your files. If you don’t see them and you’re not signed in with a temporary profile, use the troubleshooter to fix problems with Search. In the search box on the taskbar, type indexing, and then select Indexing Options. Select the Advanced Administrator icon

    button to view more options, then select the Troubleshoot search and indexing link and follow the steps.

    Method 3: Create a new administrator account, then search it again. Sometimes, a corrupted user profile may not allow you to access your files.

    Method 4: Check the free space on your HDD/SSD. If you didn't notice any significant changes or an increase in free space, there is a possibility that your files are still there and just moved to a different location. Just use search.

    Method 5: If the above methods fail, you have the option to use a 3rd party file recovery software or contact local Technician for assistance regarding file recovery.

    Regards.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  3. Anonymous
    2018-05-22T21:23:32+00:00

    This same thing happened to me today. I can't even get the search bar to come up to even try the suggested fixes.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  4. Anonymous
    2018-05-22T13:28:27+00:00

    This is exactly what has happened to me on my ASUS laptop, can someone please help? Cannot proceed with any search for file option as the first MS rep suggests! 

    Please help me Microsoft techs or anyone!

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments
  5. Anonymous
    2018-05-21T20:52:30+00:00

    And has everyone noticed the COMPLETE SILENCE fro Microsoft to this string, they have never contacted me to say sorry, can we help fix your problem!!

    NADA, ZIP, ZILCH, NOTHING but chirping Crickets, wonder how they will feel when they ant more money and you took this attitude with them>????

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments No comments