Google has identified and fixed a bug that was causing customer files added to Google Drive after April-May 2023 to disappear. However, the fix is not working for all affected users.
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The Google Drive team linked the users' data loss issues to a sync issue and said it was only affecting "a limited subset" of users using versions v84.0.0.0 – 84.0.4.0 of the Drive desktop app.
On November 29, two days after confirming the bug, Google reported that it “identified an issue affecting a small subset of Drive desktop users in version 84, which only affected local file changes that had not yet been synced to Drive.”
Although it describes it as a sync issue affecting its cloud, the company says that affected customers can use the desktop app to "recover" local files that haven't yet synced to Drive.
To do this, you need to download Drive for your computer version 85.0.13.0 or higher. Hold down the Shift key, click on settings , and then click on the “Restore from backup” option that will appear under a new hidden dialog.
If the recovery process starts, you will see a “Recovery started” notification and a “Recovery completed” when all lost files are restored. Once the recovery is complete, you will see a new folder on your desktop with the unsynced files named Google Drive Recovery.
If you receive a message “There is not enough disk space,” you will need to free up space and go through the process again.
See also: Google Drive: Users frustrated by disappearing files
Google recommends that anyone experiencing issues recovering lost files submit feedback using the case number #DFD84, while making sure to select the option to record diagnostic data.
They can also try restoring their files from their Drive for Desktop account backup using the tool included with Drive for Desktop version 85.0.13.0 or later, following the instructions available here. Additionally, the company suggests recovering files from Time Machine backups on Windows or macOS.
Unfortunately, Google's solution didn't work for all affected customers, leaving some unable to recover lost files. Although some users completed the recommended process, a warning appeared that some files could not be recovered.
In addition to not being able to get in touch with a Google, customers on the company's support forums are assisted by volunteers who likely have limited knowledge of Google Drive or are unaware of the issues at hand and potential workarounds or fixes.
Google Drive users are urged to avoid accessing their cloud storage until a fix is available for all affected individuals, to avoid hindering future recovery efforts. It is recommended to contact Google Support, open a new support ticket, and monitor for official announcements regarding this issue.
See also: Google Drive: 40% of files contain sensitive data
The basic features of Google Drive include the ability to store and organize files in a secure remote space. You can upload various types of files, such as text, images, videos, and audio files, and organize them into folders and subfolders. This allows you to access your files from any device with an internet.
Another key feature of Google Drive is the ability to share files with other users. You can set access permissions for each user, allowing them to view, edit, or comment on your files. This makes it easier to collaborate and work together on a document or project.
Additionally, Google Drive provides search and filtering capabilities to quickly locate and organize your files. You can search for files by name, tag, or content, and apply filters to narrow down the results to your needs.
Finally, another important feature of Google Drive is the ability to create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations directly on the platform. Using the Docs, Sheets, and Slides apps, you can create new documents, edit them, and save them directly to your Google Drive.
Source: bleepingcomputer
