
If partitions are corrupted, it would be difficult to access data, run programs, or start up a computer. In some situations, the partition will be marked as RAW, and the full partition won't be visible in Windows File Explorer.
Knowing about corruption is not enough, it’s better to know the root cause that will lead to partition corruption, which helps you to prevent partitions from corruption. Some of the main causes that can lead to partition corruption are:
✦ Improper operation. Computer users often experience this when they use the hard drive inappropriately, like resizing partitions.
✦ Virus or malware attack. It is the most common cause of partition corruption. The severity of the injury depends on the type of virus, which determines whether the data can be recovered.
✦ Insecure software. Sometimes, users would download some insecure software from the Internet, which could lead to partition corruption.
✦ Unexpected system shutdown. The operating system would shut down unexpectedly if there is an abrupt variation in the power supply.
✦ Bad sectors or tracks. If there are bad sectors or tracks in partitions, it can cause the partition to become inaccessible.
Read more here.