Google Drive not only helps you to store documents, photos, and files, but also allows you to view recent files. While viewing recent files can be helpful, it can also be risky if you share your device or account with others. There is a possibility that your confidential files may be seen by others. To avoid such issues, you need to delete your recent files from Google Drive. In this blog post, we will show you how to clear your Google Drive history and keep your files private.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of How to Delete Recent Files in Google Drive
Google Drive keeps records of your activities, such as files you’ve opened, downloaded, or shared. It also lists your recently accessed files. While Google Drive saves you time and effort by keeping these records, it can also compromise your privacy if you share your device or account. To avoid any risks, you need to delete your recent files from Google Drive regularly.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before you start deleting files, ensure that you are logged into your Google Drive account. If you are not logged in, sign in to your account. Also, ensure that you have a stable internet connection to avoid any interruptions while deleting files.
Method 1: Via Google Drive Settings
Step 1: Go to Google Drive and log in to your account.
Step 2: Look for the gear icon on the upper-right corner of the page and click on it.
Step 3: A dropdown menu will appear. Select "Settings" from the list.
Step 4: In the Settings menu, scroll down until you see the option "Clear Local File History." Click on this option.
Step 5: Confirm that you want to delete the local file history by clicking on the "Clear" button.
Step 6: The system will clear all the recent files stored in your local file history. It may take a few minutes, so be patient.
Pros:
– It deletes all the recent files from your local file history.
– It is easy and straightforward.
Cons:
– It does not delete the files shared by others.
Method 2: Via Google Account
Step 1: Go to your Google account page (https://myaccount.google.com/).
Step 2: Navigate to the "Data & Personalization" option.
Step 3: Scroll down and look for the option "Review activity controls." Click on it.
Step 4: Look for the option "Manage Activity" under the heading "Web & App Activity," and click on it.
Step 5: Select the three-dot icon located on the upper-right corner of the page.
Step 6: A dropdown menu will appear. Click on the "Delete activity by" option.
Step 7: Select the date range for which you want to delete the recent files.
Step 8: Click on the "Delete" button.
Step 9: Confirm that you want to delete the activity by clicking on the "Delete" button again.
Pros:
– It allows you to delete the files based on a specific date range.
– It deletes all the files from your activity history.
Cons:
– It may take some time to complete the process.
Method 3: Via Incognito Mode
Step 1: Open Google Chrome on your device.
Step 2: Click on the three-dot icon on the upper-right corner of the page.
Step 3: Select "New incognito window" from the dropdown list.
Step 4: A new window will appear. In this window, go to Google Drive.
Step 5: Access the recent files that you want to delete.
Step 6: Once you are done, close the incognito window.
Pros:
– It is quick and easy to use.
– It neither requires you to log in nor clear your local file history.
Cons:
– It does not allow you to delete the files based on a specific date range.
– It only deletes the files accessed within the incognito window.
Why Can’t I Delete Recent Files in Google Drive?
There can be numerous reasons why you couldn’t delete recent files in Google Drive. Some of the most common reasons include:
1. You are not logged in to your Google Drive account.
Solution: Log in to your account and try again.
2. There is a poor internet connection.
Solution: Check your internet connection and try again.
3. The recent files are shared by others.
Solution: Unlike locally stored files, shared files cannot be deleted. You have to request the owners to delete them.
Additional Tips
– Clear your recent files history regularly to avoid privacy issues.
– If your Google Drive account is shared with others, use incognito mode to avoid storing any history.
– Use two-factor authentication (2FA) to secure your Google account.
5 FAQs about How to Delete Recent Files in Google Drive
Q1: Does deleting recent files from Google Drive affect the original files?
A1: No, deleting recent files from your Google Drive does not affect the original files in any way. It only clears the access history in your account.
Q2: Can I recover the deleted recent files in Google Drive?
A2: No, once you delete the recent files from your Google Drive, you cannot recover them.
Q3: How often should I clear my recent files history in Google Drive?
A3: It is recommended to clear your recent files history regularly, at least once a week.
Q4: How do I delete files shared by others?
A4: You cannot delete files shared by others. Contact the owners of the files and request them to delete the files.
Q5: Can I use third-party apps to delete recent files from Google Drive?
A5: Yes, some third-party apps can delete recent files from your Google Drive. However, be careful while using them, as they may compromise the security of your account.
In Conclusion
Google Drive allows users to store, share, and view files quickly and easily. However, it can compromise your privacy if you store or view sensitive files on shared devices. Deleting your recent files regularly can keep your files private and secure. By using any of the mentioned methods, you can easily delete your recent files from Google Drive and keep your files safe. We hope this blog post helped you learn how to delete recent files in Google Drive.