Windows 10: How to permanently delete files data when using OneDrive

Sometimes we need to shred a file, instead of just deleting it, like when a file contains personally identifiable information PII or individually identifiable health information. When a file on OneDrive is deleted, and it moves to the Recycle Bin, how can we ensure the file is completely deleted and cannot be recreated? Is there a procedure to actually do this? And to include when using a Windows 11 computer and files can be on both the computer and the OneDrive. McAfee Shred is an example of a shredding software, however I am not clear what happens if one shreds a file on one's hard driv

:)

 

question on how to permanently delete files?

Can some one tell me how to permanently delete files that i delete from the recycle bin.?

 

OneDrive permanently deleted my video files.

Hi Chet,

Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



We understand how frustrating it cab to lose data. However, you may want to go through

Restore deleted files or folders in OneDrive and

Find lost or missing files in OneDrive for more details on missing data.



Also we would suggest you to refer to
Changes in OneDrive forum on Microsoft Community for better assistance



Hope it helps.

Manjunath H

Microsoft Community – Moderator

 

Recover permanently deleted files

If its files you really need, you may have to look into a file recovery service such as Kroll.

It is important to regularly have a backup of the most important data. Also try to just hit delete, not permanently delete. I've been in the situation. I just put it in the recycle bin, I clear it out once a month or so. Extra step but its safer.

Hope this helps.