How to Manage and Delete Your Data from Cloud Services

Nicole
Mar 20
2 min read

Cloud storage services like Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive, and Dropbox allow users to store and access files from anywhere. While convenient, these platforms may retain data longer than expected, increasing privacy risks.

Managing and deleting unnecessary or sensitive data ensures better security, privacy, and storage efficiency. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you review, control, and remove your personal data from cloud services effectively.

Remove Data from Google Drive

Step 1: Review Your Stored Data.

Use a web browser on a computer or mobile device to access the Google Drive. Sign in to Google Drive using your Google account.

Afterward, Click on "Storage" on the left panel to see all stored files sorted by size. Identify unnecessary or sensitive files that you no longer need.

Step 2: Delete Unwanted Files and Backups.

Select the files or folders you want to remove. Click and drag the file to the trash bin icon to move it to Trash.

Open the Trash folder, then click "Empty trash" to permanently delete them. Deleted files remain in Trash for 30 days before automatic removal.

Step 3: Manage Auto-Backups and Sync Settings.

At the top, click the Settings icon. A dropdown menu will appear with options such as Settings, Get Drive for Desktop, and Keyboard shortcuts. Select Settings, then click “Manage Apps”.

Find connected apps that store hidden data and click "Options" then select "Delete hidden app data" if available.

After selecting “Delete hidden app data,” a dialog box will pop up, prompting you to Cancel or Delete the app. Click "Delete" to confirm the action.

For backups, go to this link, right-click a backup, and select "Delete backup".

Step 4: Stop Automatic Backups.

Open the Google Drive app on your phone. Tap the Menu in the upper left corner, then click Settings and select Backup and reset.

Turn off "Backup by Google One" to prevent automatic uploads of photos, videos, and documents.

Step 5: Manage Shared Files and Links.

Go to "Shared with me" to see files you’ve shared or received. Click on a shared file, then tap "Share" and select "Remove access" to stop others from viewing it.

For public links, click "Anyone with the link" and select "Restricted" to limit access.

Step 6: Secure Your Account.

Take these security measures to protect your account.

Change your password regularly and use a strong, unique password.

Enable 2-Step Verification in Google Account Security.

Review and remove third-party apps with Drive access under "Security" by going to "Third-party apps with account access".

Step 7: Download Important Files Before Deleting.

Select the files you want to keep. Click "Download" to save them locally on an external hard drive or another secure storage. After confirming backups, delete unnecessary files permanently from Google Drive.