How to recover missing files in your Dropbox account

Updated Feb 08, 2024
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This article describes a feature available to all Dropbox users, unless otherwise stated.

If your Dropbox file or folder is missing because it didn’t sync to the device you’re using, visit this article to fix syncing problems. You can check by logging into your account on dropbox.com to see if the file or folder is there.
 

If your file or folder is missing for another reason, see below for options on how you can recover it.

Recover files

If the file or folder is missing because it was moved, renamed, or deleted by you or someone you are sharing it with:

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Important: Standard file recovery periods and options don’t apply to files deleted directly from the Send and track feature. Deleting a file from Send and track is permanent, and any associated metadata or data analytics can’t be recovered once the file is deleted.

Dropbox Rewind

This feature is only available to Dropbox Plus, Family, Professional, Essentials, and team accounts. 
 

Learn how to upgrade your account
 

Dropbox Rewind is a tool that lets you take a folder or whole account back to a point in time.

It’s best for: 

  • When a virus encrypts your files with ransomware
  • Accidental moves and deletions of a large number of files
     

Learn how to use Dropbox Rewind.

Version history

Your version history page lets you preview and restore older versions of files.


It’s best for:

  • Viewing or restoring an older version of a document
     

Learn more about version history.

Deleted files

Your deleted files page shows you a list of all files or folders that have been deleted. 


It’s best for: 

  • Recovering a deleted file or folder 
  • Finding a file or folder that appears missing
     

Learn more about deleted files.

Contact support

If none of the above methods worked, you can contact support and we’ll do our best to help you find what you need.

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Note: If you're on a paid Dropbox plan, you can also follow these steps to request file recovery from Dropbox support.

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