Deleted files come back on Windows 10 [TECHNICIAN FIX]
Some users have posted on forums about deleted files re-emerging in Windows 10. Consequently, users can’t erase some files that keep reappearing in Windows 10 no matter how many times they try.
One user reported the problem on the Microsoft Answers forum.
For some reason when I delete some of my files they insist on reappearing – generally audio files that I have ripped and then deleted but sometimes other files as well.
Learn how to delete persistent files with the instructions below.
Why do deleted files keep reappearing on Windows 10?
1. Fix a Corrupted Recycle Bin
- Reappearing deleted files can be due to a corrupted Recycle Bin, which users can fix with the remove directory command. To do so, press the Windows key + X hotkey.
- Select Command Prompt (Admin) on the Win + X menu to open an elevated CP.
- Enter ‘rd /s /q C:$Recycle.bin‘ in the Command Prompt as shown below.
- Close the Command Prompt’s window, and restart the desktop or laptop.
2. Uninstall Third-Party Cloud Storage or Turn Off Cloud Syncing
- Deleted files reappearing in Windows can also be due to third-party cloud syncing apps (especially those that utilize the SharpShell extension). Thus, uninstalling cloud sync software might resolve the issue, which users can do by opening Run with the Windows key + R.
- Then input ‘appwiz.cpl’ and click OK to open Programs and Features.
- Select the cloud storage app listed within the uninstaller.
- Click the Uninstall button, and select the Yes option to confirm.
- Thereafter, restart Windows after uninstalling the cloud sync software.
3. Enable the Prevent Roaming Profiles
- Windows Server users who utilize RemoteApp and Remote Desktop Services have said that they’ve fixed deleted files reappearing by enabling Prevent Roaming Profiles on the RDS server with Group Policy. To do so, open the Run accessory.
- Then open Group Policy by entering ‘gpmc.msc’ in the Open box and clicking OK.
- Then click Computer Configuration, Policies, Administrative Templates, System, and User Profiles on the left of the window.
- Then double-click Prevent Roaming Profile changes on the right of the Group Policy Editor window.
- Select the Enabled radio button.
- Select the Apply option.
- Press OK to close the window.
4. Delete Files With File Deletion Software
Instead of deleting with the usual Windows options, try erasing files that reappear with third-party file deletion software. Software such as File Shredder and Secure Eraser enables users to delete selected files and folders more thoroughly. So, files might not reappear after they’re deleted with that software.
Those are a few resolutions that might ensure files don’t reappear after they’re deleted. It might also be worth running a few scans with Windows Defender or third-party antivirus utilities.
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