Copy readable files first
CleanWarden lists supported files macOS can still read, with names, types, sizes, paths, and dates for review.
Experimental External Recovery
Preview readable files. Inspect eligible deleted entries.
Choose a mounted external source and review files macOS can still read for free. On FAT32 and exFAT USB drives or SD cards, CleanWarden can inspect eligible deleted directory entries. Verify important results yourself on a disposable test drive first.
Inspect deleted entries carefully
For FAT32 and exFAT USB or SD media, CleanWarden reads deleted directory records and only offers candidates whose continuous clusters still appear unallocated.
Export to a different location
For supported results, select files and export them to another disk or folder. CleanWarden blocks exports back to the source volume; verify each copied file yourself.
Keep the boundary honest
Recovery is not promised for overwritten or fragmented files, APFS, NTFS, encrypted media, failed drives, or a raw forensic image scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Recover bring back deleted files?On FAT32 and exFAT USB drives or SD cards, it can inspect deleted directory entries and offer candidates only when their continuous clusters still appear unallocated. It does not promise recovery from overwritten, fragmented, APFS, NTFS, encrypted, or failed media.
Does Recover modify the source drive?No. The scan is read-only and does not write to the source drive.
What can I do for free?Free Recover scans a mounted source and previews supported files that macOS can still read. Export is an experimental Pro workflow and should be verified on non-production media.
Do scanned files leave my Mac?No. Source scanning and exports run locally unless you deliberately share files or diagnostics outside CleanWarden.