Cannot permanently delete a file I accidentally uploaded to work dropbox

[kurioshopp]

I accidentally uploaded a sensitive folder to my work dropbox and while I was able to delete it, I am not able to permanently delete it. I enter my password and nothing happens when I hit OK. The folder is still there.

I need to remove it before work starts for the security of my accounts and information; I have passwords and stuff in it. The file is still available for restoring. I am afraid of a data leak and need to prevent anyone from being able to see it.

How do I permanently delete the folder quickly, before anyone gets to it?

[Jay · Accepted solution]

Hi @kurioshopp, thanks for bringing this to our attention.

It's possible that the team admin has disabled the option to permanently delete files on the Dropbox Business team.

Do you see the option to permanently delete the file on the deleted files page?

This will help me to assist further!

[kurioshopp]

I see the option to permanently delete on that page, yes. It is visible when any folders or files are checked.

[Jay]

Could you try switching browsers to see if this helps?

Otherwise, you can try using incognito/private browsing mode without any extensions running, clearing your cache and even resetting your browser entirely.

[kurioshopp]

Switching from Firefox to Edge did not help.
I will try resetting browser entirely next, as I am in private mode by default.

[kurioshopp]

That also did not help.
Running without extensions, clearing the cache, and resetting entirely all did not change the result and the file is still unable to be permanently deleted.

[Jay]

Is the folder very large? Can you recover the folder and then delete some of the files manually in batches, and then permanently delete them?

[kurioshopp]

I recovered the folder. It appears to be empty. If so, then maybe I was able to cancel it before the files uploaded or something? Not sure though.

How can I be sure the files are actually gone and not just invisible or something?

[Hannah]

Hey @kurioshopp, sorry to jump in here.

Can you check your events page to see what's visible about those files there?

Permanently deleted files will not be visible, by the way.

[kaidokas]

I have exactly the same issue, cannot delete files permanently.

I see the option to delete files permanently, but when I click on "Permanently delete", and fill in my password in order to continue then nothing happens.

I don't see any errors in console or network requests either.

I have tried Chrome, Firefox, Edge - also after clearing cache.

It is definitely an issue on your side, please fix ASAP.