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macOS file recovery and security
Salvage
If data loss under macOS is the result of defective hard drives, you need to adopt a structured approach for file recovery. Since macOS 10.15, the operating system has separated the system from the data, wherein macOS creates one volume for the system and one for data. Both storage locations use the APFS filesystem. Users only have read permissions for the system volume, which does not impose any restrictions on the user when working. At the same time, however, this provides better protection for the system. However, you do need to take this into account when recovering data and be careful when using recovery programs.
Additionally, access to files and folders by third-party apps is restricted (see the "Security and Privacy" box). The protected directories include Documents , Desktop , the iCloud drive, and Downloads . Furthermore, apps are not allowed to access external drives without permission. Another protection is that Gatekeeper in macOS checks whether apps are digitally signed and originate from the App Store. Starting in version 10.15, the system repeats this test regularly – not just when first launched.
Security and Privacy
Before I go into detail about the individual methods for dealing with recovering data on macOS, note that in System Preferences | Security & Privacy under the General tab, the Allow apps download from option usually should have only the App Store item selected. However, you will not be able to use some of the tools presented here if this is the case. To install these programs, you can enable App Store and identified developers now, and then change the settings back when you're done.
If you use a data recovery program and read this hard drive, you could aggravate the problem. If data has been lost because
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