How do I permanently delete files in Dropbox?

Tags Dropbox

Files can be deleted from either the Dropbox web interface or from a desktop using the Dropbox Sync App

Files permanently deleted from Dropbox cannot be restored.

  1. Do the following to delete the file...
    1. From the Dropbox web interface
      1. Select the file you want to delete by checking the box to the left of the filename
        Select file name
      2. In the pane on the right, click Delete
        Select delete from the menu
      3. Click Delete to confirm the file deletion
    2. From your desktop which uses the Dropbox Sync App
      1. Select the file and hit the delete key or right click and click Delete
  2. The file will go into the Deleted Files folder (web interface) and/or Recycle/Trash bin of your desktop computer (Dropbox Sync App)
  3. Files can be manually permanently deleted from Dropbox
    1. Within the Dropbox web interface, click on Deleted Files
      Select delete files from the menu

    2. Click the file, and select "permanently delete." The file will permanently delete almost immediately
      select permanently delete

      Files that are in the Deleted files folder will be permanently deleted from Dropbox after 120 days

  4. If the file was synced to your desktop using the Dropbox Sync App, delete the file from your Recycle/Trash
  5. Permanently deleted files cannot be restored. 
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