Can I Fix Deleted Files Keep Coming Back on Windows 11? – Using Free and Professional Methods

Ritu Roy | data wipe fix How to's Software Technology Windows | 5 minutes read | Last updated on February 9th, 2023,
deleted files keep coming back

The most recent operating system from Microsoft is called Windows 11, and many customers adore and savor it. While others are complaining about a variety of problems, they encounter when using Windows 11 or after updating their system from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

There are several reasons for deleting a file or folder from a system when a user is utilising it. There could be a number of motives, including the need to eliminate unwanted files or clear up space. The eradication procedure, however, might be straightforward up to the point where your deleted data start to return.

Many Windows 11 users worldwide are impacted by this genuine bug. The act of deleting a file is simple and we least expect it to cause us any difficulties at work. But because of this problem, a lot of users are left wondering, “Why do my erased files keep coming back?” Continue reading to learn what is causing this as well as possible solutions.

Reasons Why Deleted Files Keep Coming Back

We dug into this problem and discovered some reasonable explanations for why deleted files keep coming back on Windows 11 PCs. Some of the causes of the files reappearing even after deletion are listed below:

  • Utilizing a cloud service with sync enabled
  • Corrupt recycling bin
  • Incorrect permissions
  • Malware or virus attack
  • The deletion of a crucial file system
  • Error in roaming profile
  • Defective system files

Techniques to Fix Deleted Files Keep Coming Back Issue

Way 1. Disable OneDrive Sync

The most frequent reason for this problem is this. When utilising OneDrive cloud storage with the sync option turned on, deleted files repeatedly reappear. By turning off cloud sync on OneDrive, this annoying problem can be resolved. To do this:

  • Use the system tray to launch OneDrive.
  • Click Settings after selecting the gear symbol.
  • Click Choose folders under the Account tab.
  • If you don’t want to sync certain directories, uncheck them.
  • Press OK.

Way 2. Repair Damaged or Corrupted Recycle Bin

The possibility exists that the files’ recurrence after deletion is due to a damaged or corrupt recycle bin application. Upon reloading the window, this can result in your deleted files reappearing in the recycle bin. Using CMD, this can be resolved (administrator). To accomplish this:

  • As an administrator, launch Command Prompt.
  • Press Enter after typing rd /s /q C:$Recycle.bin.
  • To see if the files resurface after completion, restart your computer and remove them.

Way 3. Change File/Folder Permissions

Sometimes deleted files return on your system because you don’t have the proper permissions to change the files or folders. In order to fix this, you must first modify the file’s or folder’s permissions before attempting to delete it once more. By doing this, the file or folder’s ownership will be changed, and you will be able to remove it. To modify permissions:

  • Right-click on the file or folder you want to remove.
  • Select Advanced from the Security tab by clicking on it.
  • Next to Owner, select Change.
  • Type “Everyone” in the box, select “Check names,” and press “OK.”
  • Apply and OK after clicking.

Way 4. Files to Be Removed in Safe Mode

Run your system in safe mode and see if you can remove the particular files if you suspect that your Windows system is infected with malware and that this is why erased files keep reappearing. Safe mode is a fantastic approach to check if your system is contaminated because viruses and malware cannot operate there. As soon as the system is in Safe Mode, delete the file you want to remove from it, and then restart it normally to check if it was successful. Take the actions listed below:

By following these instructions, you can start the computer in Safe Mode.

Once that is complete, locate and delete the offending file. Normalize the system restart, then verify.

Way 5. Verify for a Virus or Malware Infection.

You must download Microsoft Safety Scanner because it is not a built-in utility before continuing. It is available for download from the company’s website.

The “deleted files keep coming back” problem could be caused by a malware or virus attack. You can use the Microsoft Safety Scanner to scan your machine if you have any suspicions regarding a malware or virus assault. It is a malware removal application that works well against virus attacks and can be extremely helpful in resolving the problem where files keep showing up after being deleted because of a virus lurking in a remote part of your computer. Once you have downloaded it, carry out the following steps:

  • Start the tool, choose the kind of scan you want to run, and then click Next.
  • Hold off till the scanning is finished. Any harmful file or folder will be eliminated from the system using this utility.
  • Check again after restarting your computer.

Way 6. Error in Roaming Profile

Sometimes, even after terminating a remote desktop connection, deleted files keep coming back on your Windows 11 machine because they are still in sync with the local computer. The reason the files keep resurfacing after being deleted is due to this. You must turn on the local group principles editor’s Prevent Roaming Profile Changes from Propagating to the Server option in order to fix this.

The Windows 10 Home Edition does not support this because it lacks the local group policy editor, so keep that in mind if you use that version of Windows. As a result, if you are using Windows 10 Home and are having trouble, you can upgrade your operating system before trying this. Prevent Roaming Profile Changes from Propagating to the Server feature can be activated by selecting the following:

  • Enter gpedit.msc by pressing WIN + R and Enter.
  • Click on Computer Configuration in the left panel.
  • Select System, then Administrative Templates.
  • Select User Profiles.
  • Double-click on Prevent Roaming Profile Changes from Propagating to the Server by navigating to it on the right side of the screen.
  • Select Enabled, and then select OK.

Way 7. Rebuild a damaged system file (SFC Scan)

Due to system file faults, erased files can keep resurfacing. Run the system file checker in CMD to fix this problem. It is a useful method for locating and replacing damaged or missing system files. To do this:

  • Start CMD in administrator mode.
  • Hit Enter after entering sfc /scannow.
  • Hold off until the scan is finished. Once it’s finished, shut down CMD and restart your computer. To see if the problem has been fixed, try removing the file or folder once more.

Use Professional & Error-Free Method – CubexSoft Data Wiping Software

When all of the aforementioned approaches have failed and the erased files are still appearing, it is necessary to seek assistance from a reputable data erasure program. A professional data eraser tool called CubexSoft Data Wipe Tool is designed with advanced algorithms to safely delete files from any device or storage devices so they can never be recovered.

Conclusion

Deleting files is an easy task that is always successful. However, the most recent problem in Windows 11 computers that makes the files resurface after deletion is cause for concern. With the help of our thorough instructions, you can overcome this problem and remove the files normally without having to worry about them reappearing. We believe the approaches listed above will enable you to resolve the problem of deleted files keep coming back on windows 11 and resume your normal activities.