How to Permanently Delete Recently Deleted Photos
In today’s digital age, we often find ourselves inadvertently deleting photos that we later regret. Whether it’s a precious memory or an important document, the process of permanently deleting recently deleted photos can be a daunting task. However, with the right steps and tools, you can ensure that those photos are gone for good. In this article, we will guide you through the process of permanently deleting recently deleted photos from various devices and platforms.
1. Check the Recently Deleted Folder
The first step in permanently deleting recently deleted photos is to check the “Recently Deleted” folder on your device. This folder is designed to store deleted photos for a specific period before they are permanently deleted. Here’s how to access and delete photos from the “Recently Deleted” folder:
– For iPhone users: Open the Photos app, tap on the “Albums” tab, scroll down, and select the “Recently Deleted” album. Select the photos you want to delete, tap the “Delete” button, and confirm the deletion.
– For Android users: Open the Gallery app, navigate to the “Recently Deleted” folder, select the photos you want to delete, and tap the “Delete” option.
2. Use a File Manager
If you have accidentally deleted photos and they are not in the “Recently Deleted” folder, you can use a file manager to permanently delete them. Here’s how to do it:
– Download and install a file manager app on your device (e.g., ES File Explorer, Solid Explorer).
– Open the file manager, navigate to the storage location where the photos were stored (e.g., internal storage, SD card).
– Find the deleted photos and delete them permanently by selecting them and choosing the delete option.
3. Use a Third-Party Data Recovery Tool
If you have already cleared the “Recently Deleted” folder and the photos are not recoverable using a file manager, you can try using a third-party data recovery tool. These tools are designed to scan your device’s storage and recover deleted photos. Here’s how to use a data recovery tool:
– Download and install a reputable data recovery tool (e.g., iMyFone D-Back, Dr.Fone).
– Open the tool and select the recovery mode for deleted photos.
– Connect your device to the computer and follow the on-screen instructions to scan for deleted photos.
– Once the scan is complete, select the deleted photos you want to recover and choose the “Recover” option.
– After the recovery process, you can delete the photos again using the file manager or the “Recently Deleted” folder.
4. Reset Your Device
If all else fails, you can reset your device to factory settings. This will erase all data, including deleted photos, from your device. However, keep in mind that this is a permanent solution and you will lose all your data. Here’s how to reset your device:
– For iPhone users: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Enter your passcode and confirm the deletion.
– For Android users: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Factory data reset. Select the option to reset your device and confirm the deletion.
Conclusion
Permanently deleting recently deleted photos can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you can ensure that those photos are gone for good. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can recover deleted photos, use a file manager, try a third-party data recovery tool, or reset your device to factory settings. Remember to always back up your important photos to avoid accidental deletions in the future.