Because of the way backups are done, we need to know some details about the date and time the files were lost or ruined. For example, "I haven't changed the file in years, and lost it today [ today's date ] ." or "I wrote over the file on Friday, and didn't realize it was ruined until I tried to use the file today." If files were lost or ruined on multiple days, enter any known dates.

It is helpful to know when you think the files were last in a good state. For example, "Files were OK yesterday [ yesterday's date ]", or "Files were OK for sure on [ date ]." You can also let us know how long the files have existed for weeks, months or years. If you don't know, just put, "I don't know".