OneDrive File Issues

Fix: OneDrive Asks to Delete Thousands of Unfamiliar Files

John Wilson Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user receives a repeated notification from OneDrive stating that thousands of unfamiliar files were deleted, and is asked whether to keep or remove them, raising concerns about malware or unauthorized access.

What to Do When OneDrive Asks to Delete Thousands of Unfamiliar Files

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: A user is unexpectedly prompted by OneDrive to confirm the mass deletion of thousands of unrecognizable files and is unsure how to respond safely.
Observed behavior: OneDrive repeatedly displays a pop-up warning about massive file deletions, forcing the user to choose 'Keep' or 'Remove' without knowing the origin of the files.

Before you start

Do not click 'Keep' or 'Remove' on the notification yet, as this could be a fraudulent prompt caused by malware. Temporarily disconnect your device from the internet to halt any malicious synchronization or data loss.

Solution 1Recommended

Run a Full Malware Scan with Windows Security

Use this method to identify and remove any malicious software that might be generating fake OneDrive prompts or maliciously modifying your file system.

The sudden deletion or creation of thousands of unfamiliar files is a common symptom of ransomware or a malicious script attempting to manipulate your cloud storage. Scanning your system ensures that no malware is actively compromising your files.

Open Windows Security

Click the Windows Start menu, type 'Windows Security', and press Enter to launch the built-in antivirus dashboard.

Select Virus & threat protection

Click on 'Virus & threat protection' on the left sidebar to access your scanning options.

Run a full scan

Click 'Scan options', select 'Full scan', and click the 'Scan now' button. Wait for the comprehensive scan to complete and follow prompts to remove any detected threats.

Run a Full Malware Scan with Windows Security

Avoid Clicking the Prompt: If you suspect the OneDrive pop-up is fake malware, close it using the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) by ending the OneDrive task, rather than clicking any buttons within the window.

Solution 2

Review Recent Microsoft Account Activity

Check for unauthorized remote access to your Microsoft account that could be causing the mass file deletions.

Solution 3

Restore Legitimate Files via OneDrive Recycle Bin

If legitimate files were maliciously or accidentally deleted during a sync issue, you can recover them directly from the web interface.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say files were deleted when I didn't delete anything?

This can happen due to a sync glitch across multiple devices, a third-party application modifying your OneDrive folder in the background, or malware attempting to maliciously encrypt or delete your data.

What should I do if I accidentally clicked 'Keep' on a suspicious OneDrive prompt?

Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet to stop any ongoing malicious synchronization. Then, run a full antivirus scan using Windows Security or your preferred anti-malware software to detect and remove threats.

Can I undo a mass deletion in OneDrive?

Yes. You can log into the OneDrive website, navigate to the Recycle bin, and restore deleted files within 30 days (or 93 days for work or school accounts) before they are permanently erased from Microsoft's servers.

Document & File Issues