UPDATE: Google Drive has reportedly lost some user data (Google responds, investigating)

UPDATE: Google Drive has reportedly lost some user data (Google responds, investigating)،

UPDATE: The Google Drive team has released an update via the supportive community clarifying that this affects the desktop app and stating that they are currently investigating. Some tips were also offered, like not disconnecting the account from the desktop app or deleting the app’s data folder. Updated story continues below:

UPDATE: Google Drive reportedly lost some user data (Google responds and investigates)

Google Drive, the widely used cloud storage service, is reportedly facing an issue resulting in files disappearing for some users. Several reports have surfaced on the Google Support Forum and other platforms, indicating that users lose access to specific files stored on their Google Drive accounts. As reported Android FontThe issue appears to affect files downloaded after May 2023, as reported by one South Korean user who discovered that all their files from that period were missing from their Drive. The affected files are not visible in any folder, trash, or revision. The user also clarified that their Drive has not been shared with anyone else, eliminating the possibility of accidental deletion or unsharing. Additional reports from other Google Drive users further confirmed the issue. One user reported losing crucial files, while another said he could only see the folders and subfolders of certain files, but not the files themselves.

The exact cause of the problem remains unclear and it is not certain whether it affects the web version, the application or the folders synced on the computers. Users are advised to check all potential locations where their files could be accessed.

Google has not officially acknowledged the issue, but some users have shared it via the Google Drive Help Forum that they heard individually from Google Support. These users have been advised not to make any changes to their Google Drive while the investigation is ongoing by product engineers. They specifically warned against modifying the root/data folder on their devices.

Currently, the Google Workspace Status Dashboard indicates that the Google Drive service is fully operational and that no issues have been reported. However, if you are having issues with missing files, your best bet is to contact Google Support or remain seated while currently open cases are investigated. Additionally, be careful when using Google Drive and avoid making changes that could compromise your files. Hopefully Google will come back with an update and/or resolution soon.