OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Error: File Was Moved, Deleted, or Cannot Be Accessed

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to open business files or photos in OneDrive, receiving an error message stating that the item has been moved, deleted, or cannot be accessed. Folders are also appearing empty or incomplete.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to open, view, or manage files and folders stored in OneDrive across various devices and web browsers.
Observed behavior: Files and photos fail to open, displaying an error that they are moved, deleted, or inaccessible. This widespread issue across devices leads the user to suspect account compromise or data hacking.

Before you start

Before proceeding, check the official Microsoft Service Health status page to confirm whether there are ongoing server outages affecting OneDrive in your region.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Files on OneDrive Web and Contact Microsoft Support

Since the issue occurs consistently across multiple devices and browsers, it is highly likely a server-side account or permission issue rather than a local device problem. Direct intervention from OneDrive Support is required.

Encountering this error simultaneously on different devices usually rules out local syncing failures. It points toward temporary backend glitches or server-side permission changes.

While it can look alarming and mimic a hacked account, it is typically an internal Microsoft server state error that their support team can reset or investigate.

Sign in to OneDrive Web

Open a web browser and navigate directly to https://onedrive.live.com. Sign in with your Microsoft credentials to see if the files load correctly in the cloud interface.

Access the Direct Support Link

If your folders are still empty or files remain inaccessible, go to the official OneDrive support ticketing system via https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=528676.

Submit an Investigation Request

Fill out the support form detailing the exact error message ('moved, deleted, or cannot be accessed') and mention that it occurs across all devices. Request the support team to check your account permissions and server-side status.

Account Security: This specific behavior is a known indicator of temporary OneDrive access issues, not necessarily data loss or account hacking. However, you can change your password for peace of mind while waiting for support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive say my file was deleted when I didn't delete it?

This usually happens due to severe network interruptions, syncing delays between your local device and the cloud, or temporary server-side glitches on Microsoft's end that break the file path link.

Can I recover my files if they actually disappeared from OneDrive?

Yes. Log in to the OneDrive website and click on 'Recycle bin' in the left-hand navigation pane. Deleted files are retained there for 30 days (personal accounts) or 93 days (work/school accounts) before permanent deletion.

How do I know if my OneDrive account has been hacked?

A hacked account typically involves unauthorized login attempts (which you can check on your Microsoft Account Security page) or altered security info. Access errors alone are usually technical glitches, but turning on Two-Step Verification is highly recommended if you are concerned.

Document & File Issues