Data loss hits Google Drive users; Google responds

Google Drive users have recently reported a disconcerting issue involving the loss of recent files stored in the cloud.

Users have expressed frustration over missing data and alterations in the folder structure, indicating that the cloud service has reverted to a storage snapshot from several months ago.

One user shared the distressing experience of losing all data dating back to May. Additionally, the affected user sought assistance from Google's community support site, where the support team attempted to aid in data recovery.

However, the recovery process, which involved backing up and restoring a DriveFS folder, proved unsuccessful.

Another user reported that their IT specialist was unable to locate any traces of the lost files, while a separate user highlighted Google's request for an export of their drive diagnostic data.

Furthermore, multiple users expressed similar complaints of missing files on Google’s support forum, with some reporting the absence of files stored after May 2023, while others indicated missing files extending back over the past year or two.

Official Response from Google

Google has officially acknowledged the problem on its Community forums, attributing it to versions 84.0.0.0 through 84.0.4.0 of the Drive for Desktop app.

While the exact cause of the bug remains unknown, Google has stated that they are actively investigating the issue.

The company issued the following recommendations to affected users: refrain from disconnecting their Google account from the desktop app and avoid deleting or transferring any data from the “DriveFS” folder on their devices.

Instead, users are urged to create a backup copy of this folder if sufficient space is available.

Google advises against deleting or moving the app data folder, providing the directory paths for both Windows and macOS systems.

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