Missing files and folders. Can you help restore them?

OsloBase

Hello Dropbox Support and Community,

I urgently need assistance recovering missing files from my Dropbox account.

I have used Dropbox for many years, including on an older MacBook Pro. I recently discovered that a large amount of my personal photos, videos, and documents appears to be missing.

My account currently shows approximately 10.9 GB of regular files, but when I browse my folders, I can only find a small portion of the material I previously stored.

Here is what I have checked:

• Deleted Files: No deleted files found within the available recovery period.
• Dropbox Backup: My old MacBook Pro is listed, but the backup shows 0 bytes.
• Storage usage: Approximately 10.9 GB of regular files, with no backup or shared-file storage reported.
• My account is currently 4.63 GB over its 6.25 GB storage limit.

I have also received a warning that Dropbox may begin deleting files on November 14, 2026.

I still own my old MacBook Pro, although its screen is broken, and I cannot currently access it.

Could a Dropbox staff member please help me investigate the following?

1. Why does my account show 10.9 GB of stored files when so much of my previous material appears to be missing?
2. Is there any way to locate or recover older missing files or folders?
3. Can Dropbox check whether files were deleted, moved, or affected by synchronization?
4. Would upgrading my account help preserve the remaining files or enable any additional recovery options?

My priority is to recover as much of my original material as possible and transfer it safely to an external hard drive. I am willing to purchase a subscription if necessary.

Thank you very much for your assistance.

Best regards,
André Bach

Walter

Hi @OsloBase - sorry to hear about your missing files.

Besides your deleted files page and the backups page, have you also checked your events page and the sharing page as well?

As for your last concern, note that upgrading your account would help preserve your files and prevent the deletions due to your account being over its storage space limit. You'd also have access to the Dropbox Rewind feature, but your version history would remain the same (30 days).

I hope this helps a tad and please keep me posted on your findings!