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joshbreindel's avatar
joshbreindel
New member | Level 1
2 months ago

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's avatar
    Mark
    Icon for Super User II rankSuper 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

    • joshbreindel's avatar
      joshbreindel
      New member | Level 1

      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!