Data recovery scams — The biggest traps and how to avoid them

Recent reports by Tagesschau and SR.de highlight problematic practices in the data recovery industry – from excessive costs to questionable diagnoses.

🔗 Read the Tagesschau report

🔗 Read the SR.de report

Note: We expressly do not endorse the content of the reports mentioned; we are simply drawing attention to public discussions.

In an increasingly digital world, smartphones and other storage media have become indispensable. But what happens when access to important data is suddenly lost? Data recovery is often the last hope – but not every provider operates fairly and transparently. Recent investigations by Tagesschau and SR.de have revealed questionable practices in the industry. We explain what to look out for and how to protect yourself from unscrupulous methods.

• Be cautious of advertisements offering free diagnostic assessments. These offers often lead to unexpectedly high charges for the actual data recovery.
• Pay particular attention to negative reviews. Check review platforms such as Google and Trustpilot to get a comprehensive picture.
• Visiting a data recovery company is not always the best first step. In many cases, a local phone repair shop can resolve the problem more quickly, affordably and easily. Start by getting an initial assessment from a trusted repair shop. But be careful: only let experienced technicians work on your device! Unprofessional attempts can make the damage worse and drastically reduce the chances of successful data recovery.
• Call and describe your problem in detail. Describing the problem over the phone can often provide a rough estimate of the potential cost. Ask specifically about the expected charges to avoid unpleasant surprises.
• Ask about the handling fee if you decline the quote or recovery is unsuccessful. Some providers charge high fees even if the data cannot be recovered or you do not accept the quote. Clarify this in advance.
• Ask about the condition in which your device will be returned. Find out in advance what condition your device will be in if you decide not to proceed with data recovery.
• Choose providers with transparent pricing. It makes more sense to choose a provider that clearly and openly sets out its pricing structure on its website before you book. This helps you assess the costs you can expect.

• Be wary of diagnoses declaring a device "beyond repair". Some providers are quick to declare devices irreparable to justify higher charges for supposedly complex data recovery. Ask for a detailed technical explanation and get a second opinion.
• Be suspicious of large discounts offered after you reject the initial quote. Some providers suddenly offer substantial discounts if you do not accept their original quote. This often suggests that the initial pricing was not legitimate. Decline such offers and instead request that your device be returned in the same condition in which you sent it.