According to TechRadar, Microsoft is preparing a significant change to its OneDrive cloud storage service, directly impacting users without valid licenses. Starting January 27, data from OneDrive accounts inactive for 93 days will be either deleted or archived.
Microsoft Warns Unlicensed OneDrive Users
This policy targets unlicensed OneDrive accounts, often associated with individuals who have left an organization, been removed from the SharePoint admin center, or had their licenses revoked by administrators.
After 93 days of inactivity, data from these accounts will be moved to the trash. If not retrieved within the next 93 days, the data will be permanently deleted. However, users can still “rescue” their data by reactivating the account or setting up a retention policy, though this process may incur substantial fees.
Microsoft advises OneDrive users to immediately check their account status and take prompt action to avoid losing critical data.
This move is seen as a firm step by Microsoft to enhance security and compliance for OneDrive. However, it also serves as a wake-up call for millions of users to prioritize protecting their personal data on cloud platforms.