OneDrive folder disappeared, some files show "This item might not exist"

Question

Hello,

I have created multiple folders on OneDrive and shared them with my family for collaborative use. Previously, everything worked fine, and both my family members and I could edit files online and exchange messages without any issues.

However, about a week ago, I logged into my account and found that one of the folders I created had disappeared. Strangely, when my family logs into their accounts, they can still see the folder, but some of the files inside display the message "This item might not exist or is no longer available" when opened, while others can still be edited online without any problems.

Could you please help me understand what the issue might be and how to resolve it? Thank you very much!

Best regards,
Eddie Wang

Answer 1

Check Recycle Bin.

Log into OneDrive site.

Navigate to the Shared section to see if the folder is still listed there.

Ask a family member to share the folder link with you

Try accessing it through their shared link to see if you can regain access.

Search for it in OneDrive by using the search bar and typing part of the folder's name.

Answer 2

Hi,

1. Check Personal Vault: Make sure your missing files are not stored in your Personal Vault. Unlock the Personal Vault and see if the items are there.
2. Restore OneDrive: If you are a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you can restore your entire OneDrive to a previous time. This feature helps undo all the actions that occurred on any files and folders within the last 30 days.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/restore-your-onedrive-fa231298-759d-41cf-bcd0-25ac53eb8a15

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