Google has identified and clarified the cause of file loss on Google Drive. The issue is specifically linked to the Google Drive desktop app for PC. Google plans to release updates once additional information is obtained and offers guidance on what to do in the meantime. Explore the full information now!
What was the issue?

A Google Drive user complained about their files disappearing, and a Google employee responded on the support page, mentioning that the files reverted back to how they were in May 2023.
“Saitej” reported that the Google Drive desktop app (v84.0.0.0.0 – 84.0.4.0) is experiencing synchronization issues. Until the bug is fixed, users are recommended to adhere to specific instructions.
- Avoid selecting “Unconnect Account” on Desktop Drive (PC).
- Do not remove or relocate the specified Google Drive data folder.
- In Windows, the path is %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Google\DriveFS.
- On macOS, the location is: ~/Library/Application Support/Google/DriveFS
If you have available hard drive or solid-state drive storage space, it is advisable to create a duplicate of the specified Google Drive data folder.
Google Drive for desktop overview
To utilize the Google Drive desktop application on a computer, you need a Google account. Visit the Google website, choose “download for Windows” or “download for Mac,” and then open the respective file (“GoogleDriveSetup.exe” for Windows or “GoogleDrive.dmg” for Mac) on your computer to proceed with the installation instructions.