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Original topic:

Gallery photos got deleted automatically.

(Topic created on: 02-11-2025 05:15 PM)
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Suvriti
Active Level 1
Options
Galaxy S
Yesterday I checked my gallery and around 2k images in my camera got deleted automatically. No permission was asked or any prior notice for getting a backup was given. All videos, screenshots and screen recordings are as it is. I was loving my S21 Fe experience but now I'm too disappointed. 

The photos I had deleted manually were still in trash and no other photos were in the trash of gallery/google photos/my files. 

I read a lot many similar experiences from other samsung users on samsung website and the only response samsung gave was buy the storage on cloud. 
Why should I buy cloud storage, if I already have 256GB storage in my phone. 

I want my pictures back. 

1 Solution


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Solution
Wodehouse
Expert Level 5
Galaxy S
I understand your frustration. Losing 2,000 photos unexpectedly is a significant loss, especially when you have ample storage on your device. It's also concerning to hear that other Samsung users have reported similar issues. While I can't directly recover your photos, I can offer some steps and suggestions:
1. Immediate Actions:
* Stop Using the Camera: Avoid taking new photos or videos. The more you use your phone's storage, the higher the chance that the deleted photos might be overwritten, making recovery more difficult.
* Check Other Potential Locations:
* Samsung Cloud: Even if you don't actively use it, check if there's any chance a backup was automatically created.
* Google Photos (if used): Double-check the Trash/Bin there, and also look to see if any photos might have been backed up without you realizing it.
* Other Cloud Services: If you use any other cloud storage (Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.), check those as well.
* Secure Folder (if used): If you use Secure Folder, sometimes photos can end up there.
2. Recovery Options (Proceed with Caution):
* Data Recovery Software: There are data recovery apps for Android (and software for computers that can connect to your phone) that might be able to recover deleted photos. These tools work by searching for remnants of deleted files. However, success is not guaranteed, and using such software can sometimes cause further issues if not used carefully. Research reputable options and follow their instructions precisely. Do this as soon as possible, as the chances of recovery diminish over time.
* Professional Data Recovery Services: If the photos are extremely valuable and you've exhausted other options, you might consider contacting a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise, but this is a more expensive option.
3. Addressing the Issue with Samsung:
* Contact Samsung Support Directly (Again): Don't just rely on general forum responses. Contact Samsung support via phone or their live chat. Clearly explain the situation, the number of photos lost, and that you've seen similar reports from other users. Escalate the issue if necessary.
* Social Media: Publicly sharing your experience on social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) can sometimes get a company's attention. Use relevant hashtags (#Samsung, #GalaxyS21FE, #DataLoss, etc.).
* Consumer Advocacy: If you're not getting satisfactory support from Samsung, consider contacting consumer advocacy organizations or reporting the issue to relevant authorities in your region.
4. Preventing Future Loss:
* Regular Backups: The most crucial step is to back up your photos regularly. Use a combination of methods:
* Cloud Backup (Google Photos, Samsung Cloud, etc.): Set up automatic backups. Even the free tiers often provide enough storage for essential photos.
* Local Backup (Computer, External Hard Drive): Copy your photos to a computer or external drive periodically.
* Check App Permissions: Review the permissions granted to your photo gallery and camera apps. Make sure they are not inadvertently set to delete or clear data.
* Software Updates: Keep your phone's software and apps up-to-date. Updates often contain bug fixes that could address issues like this.
It's understandable that you're disappointed with Samsung. While they might suggest cloud storage as a general practice, it doesn't excuse the potential for software glitches that cause data loss on devices with ample internal storage. I hope you're able to recover some or all of your photos. Good luck!

If this reply answered your query please tap 3 vertical dots to the right of my reply and tap "Resolved". Thank you 😊

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5 Comments
DULCHI
Active Level 4
Galaxy S
😮
0 Likes
Solution
Wodehouse
Expert Level 5
Galaxy S
I understand your frustration. Losing 2,000 photos unexpectedly is a significant loss, especially when you have ample storage on your device. It's also concerning to hear that other Samsung users have reported similar issues. While I can't directly recover your photos, I can offer some steps and suggestions:
1. Immediate Actions:
* Stop Using the Camera: Avoid taking new photos or videos. The more you use your phone's storage, the higher the chance that the deleted photos might be overwritten, making recovery more difficult.
* Check Other Potential Locations:
* Samsung Cloud: Even if you don't actively use it, check if there's any chance a backup was automatically created.
* Google Photos (if used): Double-check the Trash/Bin there, and also look to see if any photos might have been backed up without you realizing it.
* Other Cloud Services: If you use any other cloud storage (Dropbox, OneDrive, etc.), check those as well.
* Secure Folder (if used): If you use Secure Folder, sometimes photos can end up there.
2. Recovery Options (Proceed with Caution):
* Data Recovery Software: There are data recovery apps for Android (and software for computers that can connect to your phone) that might be able to recover deleted photos. These tools work by searching for remnants of deleted files. However, success is not guaranteed, and using such software can sometimes cause further issues if not used carefully. Research reputable options and follow their instructions precisely. Do this as soon as possible, as the chances of recovery diminish over time.
* Professional Data Recovery Services: If the photos are extremely valuable and you've exhausted other options, you might consider contacting a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise, but this is a more expensive option.
3. Addressing the Issue with Samsung:
* Contact Samsung Support Directly (Again): Don't just rely on general forum responses. Contact Samsung support via phone or their live chat. Clearly explain the situation, the number of photos lost, and that you've seen similar reports from other users. Escalate the issue if necessary.
* Social Media: Publicly sharing your experience on social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) can sometimes get a company's attention. Use relevant hashtags (#Samsung, #GalaxyS21FE, #DataLoss, etc.).
* Consumer Advocacy: If you're not getting satisfactory support from Samsung, consider contacting consumer advocacy organizations or reporting the issue to relevant authorities in your region.
4. Preventing Future Loss:
* Regular Backups: The most crucial step is to back up your photos regularly. Use a combination of methods:
* Cloud Backup (Google Photos, Samsung Cloud, etc.): Set up automatic backups. Even the free tiers often provide enough storage for essential photos.
* Local Backup (Computer, External Hard Drive): Copy your photos to a computer or external drive periodically.
* Check App Permissions: Review the permissions granted to your photo gallery and camera apps. Make sure they are not inadvertently set to delete or clear data.
* Software Updates: Keep your phone's software and apps up-to-date. Updates often contain bug fixes that could address issues like this.
It's understandable that you're disappointed with Samsung. While they might suggest cloud storage as a general practice, it doesn't excuse the potential for software glitches that cause data loss on devices with ample internal storage. I hope you're able to recover some or all of your photos. Good luck!

If this reply answered your query please tap 3 vertical dots to the right of my reply and tap "Resolved". Thank you 😊
goodthings
Expert Level 5
Galaxy S
Kindly complaint to Samsung customer support through Samsung Members App as error report also send log files Along with this error report for this issue and wait for resolves this issue. If you like please accept as a solution it's help to others users also, click on 3dots in my reply section and click on accept solution. Thanks.
goodthings
Expert Level 5
Galaxy S
Your's most welcome to here.
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cs_member10
Moderator
Moderator
Options
Galaxy S

Dear Samsung Member,

Greetings from Samsung Customer Support!

As per your query, It would be very upsetting if you lost your precious photos. If in case you accidentally lose them, there is a way to restore deleted photos as follows. Moreover, also find out how to transfer, store, and manage photos containing your memories in advance. However, files will be permanently removed from the Samsung phone or tablet after 30 days. Ensure to restore files within 30 days otherwise, they will be permanently removed from the Samsung phone or tablet.

Option 1. Through Gallery app: Activate Trash: To use Trash, you should have turned on the Trash before you deleted photos. Open the 'Gallery' app then tap the 'Menu icon.
2. Select 'Settings'.
3. Switch the 'Recycle Bin' to On. On some models and software versions, you can find 'Trash' instead of Recycle Bin.
Restore photos and videos: Keep deleted images and videos in the Trash for 30 days before they are deleted forever.
Open the 'Gallery' app and tap the 'Menu' icon. 2. Select 'Recycle Bin' or 'Trash'.

Option 2. Through the Google Photos app: Restore photos and videos: Items will be permanently deleted after 60 days in Trash.
1. Open the 'Google Photos' app.
2. Tap the 'Library' icon then select 'Bin' or 'Trash'.
3. Select the photos you want to restore then tap 'Restore'.
Check your account: Some photos may look like they disappeared because you are in a different account. Check your signed-in account. Is that the account you backed up your photos to? If not, sign out, and then sign in with the correct account.

Option 3. Through Cloud: Gallery sync using Samsung Cloud has been switched to MS OneDrive for convenience. Periodic backups are required to prevent unwanted data loss including photos and videos.

1. Navigate to 'Gallery' > 'More' options (three horizontal lines on the bottom right) > 'Settings'.
2. Tap 'Sync with OneDrive' > Connect your Samsung and Microsoft accounts if needed.
3. Follow on-screen instructions until the sync has started.
Note: Available settings and screens may vary by wireless service provider, software version, and device.

If you have any further queries, kindly feel free to get in touch with us if there is any issue regarding the Samsung.

Warm Regards,
Samsung Customer Support

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