Data recovery from FileVault-encrypted Macs
FileVault protects your data with strong encryption. We can recover encrypted drives that have failed – as long as you can provide the password or recovery key that unlocks them.
What we can and cannot do
FileVault uses XTS-AES encryption. There is no back door, and nobody can bypass it without the right credentials. What we do is repair or image the failing drive or Mac so that your credentials can unlock the data again.
On Macs with a T2 or Apple silicon chip, the encryption keys live in the Mac’s security hardware, so recovery must happen through that same Mac.
How we recover it
We confirm proof of ownership, then image the storage or repair the Mac. Decryption happens only with your credentials, and we never keep copies of passwords or keys after the job. Recovered data is returned on encrypted media if you prefer.
What it costs
Every job starts with a professional evaluation (£94.80). You then get a fixed quote and a list of recoverable files before any recovery work is charged. As a guide, FileVault cases are in our advanced band of £1,400–£2,800 when hardware repair is needed; simpler cases are quoted lower after evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
I have forgotten my password and lost the recovery key. Can you help?
No. Without valid credentials FileVault data cannot be decrypted by anyone, including Apple. Check old notes, password managers and your Apple Account first.
Is FileVault on by default?
On many recent Macs it is switched on during setup. If you are unsure, tell us the model and we will check at evaluation.
Do you need my password to evaluate the Mac?
Not for the hardware diagnosis. We only need it at the point of unlocking the data.
Related services
macOS Corruption & Failed UpdatesBoot loops, stuck updates and corrupted APFS volumes.
Deleted or Formatted Mac FilesEmptied Trash, erased disks and accidental reformats.
Mac SSD & Fusion Drive FailureFusion Drive, Apple blade SSD and soldered storage failures.
MacBook Liquid DamageCoffee, water and drink spills on MacBook Air and Pro.
Mac Not Powering On or BootingDead Macs, black screens and boot failures.
iMac & Mac Pro Hard Drive CrashClicking and failed hard drives in iMac and Mac Pro towers.
Mac Logic Board & NAND DamageBoard-level repair to reach soldered, encrypted Mac storage.
Talk to an engineer
Describe the problem and the make and model if you know it. We will reply with a price and the fastest way to get it fixed, usually the same working day.
020 7237 6805 London repair centreUnit 1, 80 Willow Walk, London SE1 5SY
Monday to Saturday, 9am–6pm
Ready to send it in? Book online and get your job number by email straight away.