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Forum Discussion
There's a .canary file causing syncing issues on my Dropbox app.
Hey all! My local backup software failed out yesterday - it reported that there was a file in use in Dropbox. I poked around and found that ".canary" in my Dropbox cache was marked with the syncing icon (round blue arrows). There was also a file "canary.enabled", but that one seemed to be static.
When I delete the ".canary" file, it simply reappears. This file doesn't show up on my online account (natch).
I can see it on my two linked computers, my desktop (Win 11) and laptop (Win 10). Both are running app version 214.3.5104. I have a basic (free) account.
Anyone know what's going on with this canary file? Why can't I delete it? Where did it come from? I'd like to clear it so my local backup will run, but I'm also concerned that this might indicate a security issue, as I have no idea where this file came from.
Thanks for anything you can offer!
- Mark
Super User II
That isnt a Dropbox file, it sounds like you are using a work device? And if so that file is part of the security software/settings of the employer to help detect unauthorised access and use.
Have a look at https://help.eset.com/glossary/en-US/canary_file.html
Thanks for the reply! I was afraid this wasn't a Dropbox file...
Interstingly, I have the app on three computers - the two personal ones I mentioned above and on my work computer. I checked my work computer today, and that ".canary" file ISN'T on my work computer and IS on my two homes ones!
Any additional ideas greatly appreciated!
