How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from iCloud? [3 Ways]

When you look through the Apple Support Community, you might see the topic of ‘iCloud recover deleted files’ being heatedly discussed. It can be a real headache because when you delete files from iCloud, they are also deleted from all synced devices. So, can deleted iCloud files be recovered, or are they gone forever? If you are one of the many people experiencing data loss, don’t worry as we’ve got you covered. In this complete guide, we’ll show you how to recover recently or permanently deleted files from iCloud. Let’s get started!

Part 1: Is It Possible to Recover Deleted Files from iCloud?

When users accidentally delete files from iCloud, the first question they often ask is, “Can deleted iCloud files be recovered?” Unfortunately, it’s not that simple to answer as it depends on various factors. To help avoid data loss, iCloud provides a special folder for temporarily storing deleted files. Just like Trash or Recycle Bin, you can restore recently deleted iCloud files from there with ease. However, recovery becomes significantly challenging under these three circumstances:

• You remove the desired files from the ‘Recently Deleted’ folder.
• Deleted files stay in the ‘Recently Deleted’ folder for over 30 days.
• You empty the ‘Recently Deleted’ folder.

In such cases, your files are usually removed from iCloud entirely and can’t be easily recovered without specialized software tools. Now, let’s take a closer look at how to recover permanently deleted files from iCloud.

Part 2: How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from iCloud?

4DDiG Mac Data Recovery is a powerful and beginner-friendly tool designed to recover permanently deleted files from iCloud. Whether you accidentally deleted important files or lost them due to other reasons, this program can scan the local iCloud directory and retrieve various types of files including photos, videos, documents, and more. Its main features include:

• Regains lost iCloud files from iCloud local directory or backups on hard drive.
• Supports macOS Sonoma and earlier versions.
• Impressive success rate and user-friendly interface.
• Allows you to selectively recover specific types of data.
• Fast scanning speed, making iCloud deleted files recovery more efficient.

Given below is a guide on how to recover permanently deleted files from iCloud with the help of 4DDiG:

Step 1: Begin by installing and launching the 4DDiG Mac Data Recovery tool. Then, select the “iCloud” tab from the left panel. Click on the “Get Started” button to scan all data within your iCloud folder.

Step 2: To save time, you’ll be prompted to select the file type you wish to recover. 4DDiG will conduct a comprehensive scan of your local iCloud directory to recover any missing or deleted data.

Step 3: Before recovery, this tool allows you to preview recoverable files for free. If everything is okay, select the target files and simply click on the “Recover” button.

Part 3: How to Recover Recently Deleted Files from iCloud?

Solution 1: Recover files recently deleted from iCloud Drive or iWork apps

As mentioned before, Apple implements a feature across its services to help you recover files deleted within the last 30 days. Yes, you heard that right. Whether you delete a file from your iPhone, iPad, Mac, or through the iCloud website, the file will be moved to the “Recently Deleted” folder and can be recovered from any device. To recover deleted files from iCloud, follow the given steps:

On icloud.com

Step 1: Open Safari and go to iCloud.com. Then, log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Click on the “Drive” icon in the home interface.

Step 3: Navigate to the “Recently Deleted” folder from the left panel.

Step 4: After selecting the files you want to restore, click the three-dot icon on the right and select “Recover.”

On iPhone/iPad

Step 1: Launch the Files app on your phone or tab.

Step 2: Tap on “Browse” and then select “Recently Deleted.”

Step 3: Select the files you want to restore. Then, tap on the “Recover” option at the bottom of the screen. Your files will be restored to their original locations.

Solution 2: Recover files recently deleted from other apps

Sometimes, files you delete from other Apple devices do not appear in the ‘Recently Deleted’ folder as usual. This can be a bit worrying, but you can try using Apple’s Data Recovery option instead. This feature not only allows you to recover deleted files from iCloud Drive but also to restore earlier versions of your Calendar, Contacts, and Safari bookmarks. To do so:

Step 1: Once logged in, click on the “Apps” icon in the upper right corner of the iCloud interface. Select “Data Recovery” under the “More” section.

Step 2: You’ll see options for recovering files, contacts, calendars, and bookmarks. Now, click on “Restore Files” to proceed.

Step 3: Check the boxes next to the desired files and click “Restore.”

Part 4: How to Prevent iCloud Data Loss in the Future?

So, there you have it – that’s everything related to how to recover deleted iCloud files. Lost iCloud data is a situation that comes up often, so we recommend that you take some preventive measures. Here are they:

• Use Alternative Backups: In addition to iCloud, consider using other backup solutions such as an external hard drive or other cloud services. Even if data is lost or corrupted in iCloud, you have a secondary copy available.
• Optimize iCloud Storage: Running out of iCloud storage can lead to syncing issues. So, regularly delete unnecessary documents, photos or videos to free up space.
• Keep Software Updated: Ensure all your Apple devices are running the latest operating system and app updates. Updates often include bug fixes and security patches that can help prevent data loss.
• Review Files Before Deleting: Take a moment to cross-check the files you want to delete. Keep in mind that human error is one of the major reasons for data loss.

Conclusion

Now, you can say goodbye to any worries about how to recover permanently deleted files from iCloud. For those who lost files from their local iCloud directory, a specialized recovery tool like Tenorshare 4DDiG is worth a try. With just a few clicks, it can recover deleted iCloud files in an eye of blink. However, there is no guarantee that deleted iCloud files can always be recovered. It is always right to back up your files regularly in case of any data loss.