removing dropbox from my computer

[SNissen2022]

I inadvertently downloaded a malware or virus last night and when I realized it, I shut down my laptop.  I want to go back in and remove the whole Dropbox drive from my computer so it can't hurt those files.  But they are all local as well as Dropbox as I have had them there a really long time before there was as app with the synch feature.  How do I do this so I remove the whole DB drive from just that computer?

Thanks for your help...

[Walter · Accepted solution]

Hey @SNissen2022 - sorry to hear about this.

If you were affected by ransomware and you'd like to unlink this specific computer before you turn on your device again, you could remove it from your account's Security page on our website.

At that point, the Dropbox folder on your affected computer will be just a local copy with no syncing properties. You'll be able to move or delete it without affecting any of your Dropbox files online. 

For future reference, you can have a look at this Help Center article for more information about viruses and phishing and tips on how to protect yourself against them. 

I hope this helps and please keep me posted on your progress. 

[SNissen2022]

Thank you so much.  You saved me!!  Now my follow up question is whether or not I can add that device back on in the security settings, now that the malware has been removed.

Thanks so much!

[Walter]

If you've made sure that your device is clean now, you can install the desktop app and link your account anew normally @SNissen2022

Let me know if anything else comes up!

[SNissen2022]

GOt it!!  Thank you so much

[Walter]

You're most welcome @SNissen2022

See you around the Community and have a wonderful week ahead!