How to Keep Private Files in Dropbox

By Tricia Goss

i George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images

When you create a folder or upload files into your Dropbox account, the items you store are private by default. If you opt to share a folder with others, the items in that folder are no longer private. Similarly, linked files and folders are viewable by anyone with the link. Learning how to determine whether a Dropbox folder is private and how to remove sharing permissions or links will help you ensure that your files are only accessible to you.

Determine Whether Files Are Private

Step 1

Go to the Dropbox website (dropbox.com) and click the "Sign In" link. Enter the email address and password associated with your account and click "Sign In."

Step 2

Look at the primary list showing all of your files and folders.

Step 3

Look at the "Kind" column to determine whether any of your folders or files are listed as Shared.

Remove Permissions on Shared Files or Folders

Step 1

Go to the Dropbox website (dropbox.com) and click the "Sign In" link. Enter the email address and password associated with your account and click "Sign In."

Step 2

Click "Sharing" in the menu pane.

Step 3

Click the "Options" link of the shared file or folder that you want to make private.

Step 4

Click the "Gear" icon next to the person you want to remove to access the settings menu. Then select "Kick Out." Repeat this step to remove other members.

Remove a Sharing Link From a File or Folder

Step 1

Go to the Dropbox website (dropbox.com) and click the "Sign In" link. Enter the email address and password associated with your account and click "Sign In."

Step 2

Click "Links" in the menu pane.

Step 3

Click the "X" next to the file or folder from which you want to remove the link. Users will no longer be able to access the file or folder using the link they previously received.

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