My files were deleted when I uninstalled the app

[xyz12341]

So the thing is i was syncing my laptop with dropbox. Many files were synced but there were still files left to be synced and it was taking a lot of time. So, i thought of uninstalling and installing dropbox. For this at first, i unlinked my pc and sync was stopped and uninstalled dropbox. While i was uninstalling dropbox, all the files were removed and it was stored in a folder named "my dropbox files" or smth like this i forgot. The question is i guess i lost those files that were left to be synced. What happens in this situations and how to confirm that no files were destoryed? please help me

[Jay · Accepted solution]

Hi @xyz12341, thanks for messaging the Community!

Do you know if you enabled the computer backup feature on your device? 

The folder that was left behind on your computer, are your missing files located in there? 

If the missing files weren’t syncing to your account, then it wouldn’t be possible to recover them from the site. However, it might be possible to recover the files from the local machine from the recycle bin, or using a third party app or service to do so.

If you need any further assistance, please let me know!

[davidapaulson]

How do I completely remove all files from drop box without removing anything from my computer. Drop box went nuts and began downloading everything and filled itself up. I do not need a subscription amount of dropbox storage. I just want to empty drop box and start over. How do I do this without changing anything on my Mac?

[Lusil]

Thanks for nudging us on this thread, @davidapaulson. 

If you want to have a completely clean slate and start syncing again, the best way would be to pause syncing and unlink the desktop app. 

That way, you can delete the Dropbox folder without affecting your files online. 

However, just to clarify, did your files only start downloading from the web, or was any content from your computers folders uploaded as well?

[James 1]

Is deleting the dropbox folder deleting the system files on a MacBook?

[Jay]

Hi @James 1, generally, the Dropbox folder won't contain system files in it.

If you're referring to files in your Documents/Downloads/Dekstop folders, have you disabled the computer backup feature on your device first?

[AlisonAK]

I have this same issue. I have sent a message about it, too. I am stymied, can't delete anything without losing it from my Mac. Oh no!