Can you retrieve deleted ring videos？

​In an era where home security is paramount, Ring devices have become a household name, providing peace of mind through features like video recording, real-time alerts, and two-way audio. These devices capture important moments, whether it’s a package delivery or an unexpected visitor. However, there may be instances when users accidentally delete videos, leading to frustration and concern.

Understanding how Ring stores video footage and knowing the steps to recover deleted videos can be crucial. Whether you need that footage for security purposes or simply to relive a moment, knowing how to navigate the recovery process is essential.

Ring Video Storage

Ring devices record and store video footage primarily in the cloud. The length of time this footage is retained depends on the user’s subscription plan:

Basic Plan: Offers 30 days of video storage for a single device, allowing users to view, download, and share videos within this timeframe.

Plus Plan: Extends coverage to multiple devices and also provides 30 days of video storage.

Pro Plan: Offers advanced features and longer retention periods depending on the specific plan details.

When videos are deleted, they are typically removed from the Ring servers, making recovery challenging. However, if the deletion occurred recently and within the storage window of your plan, you might still have options for recovery.

Factors Affecting Video Retention

Subscription Plan: The plan you choose directly influences how long videos are stored. Users on a free plan (if applicable) may have limited access to footage.

Account Settings: Check settings related to video storage and deletion. Some users may have automatic deletion settings enabled to manage storage.

App Updates: Keeping your Ring app updated can prevent glitches that might lead to accidental deletions.

Understanding these factors is crucial in determining your options for retrieving deleted videos.

Step 1: Check Your Ring App

The Ring app is your first line of defense in searching for deleted videos. Follow these steps to navigate the app effectively:

Open the Ring App: Ensure you are logged into your account.

Go to the Event History: Tap on the three lines in the upper left corner to access the menu, then select “Event History.”

Filter Your Search: You can filter by date and time to locate the specific video you’re looking for. Videos that are still within the 30-day storage window should appear here.

Check Recently Deleted: If the app offers a ‘Recently Deleted’ folder (this feature may vary by app version), check this section for videos that might be recoverable.

If you don’t see the video, it’s possible it has been permanently deleted. However, if you see it listed, tap on it to view, download, or share.

Step 2: Explore the Ring Website

Sometimes, the website can offer more options than the mobile app. Here’s how to check your Ring account through a web browser:

Log into Your Account: Go to the Ring website and log in with your credentials.

Access Your Device: Navigate to the “Devices” section to select the camera or doorbell from which the video was recorded.

View Video History: Click on the “History” tab to browse recorded videos. Here, you can view the same footage you see in the app.

Download or Share: If the video is still available, you can download it directly to your device.

Exploring both the app and the website ensures you maximize your chances of finding and recovering your deleted videos.

Step 3: Contact Ring Support

If you cannot find your deleted videos through the app or website, contacting Ring customer support may be your best option. Here’s how to do it:

Gather Information: Before contacting support, prepare relevant details, such as your account information, the specific video you’re trying to recover, and the date it was recorded.

Visit the Support Page: Go to the Ring Support page for assistance. You can find live chat options, email support, or phone numbers.

Explain Your Situation: Clearly articulate your issue. Mention that you accidentally deleted video footage and request their assistance in recovering it. While they may not be able to recover permanently deleted videos, they can help with other related issues.

Follow Their Instructions: If they provide steps or ask for specific information, be prompt and thorough in your responses to expedite the process.

Customer support may not always have the capability to restore deleted footage, but they can guide you on the next steps or provide insights on future video management.

Step 4: Utilize Third-Party Recovery Tools

If the above methods do not yield results, consider using third-party recovery tools. Here are some steps and considerations:

Panda Assistant is a cutting-edge data recovery software designed to help users effortlessly retrieve lost or deleted files from various storage devices, including external hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards. With its user-friendly interface, Panda Assistant simplifies the recovery process, making it accessible to both beginners and advanced users alike.

Key features include deep scanning capabilities that thoroughly examine storage devices for recoverable data, quick recovery options for recently deleted files, and support for a wide range of file types. The software is equipped with advanced algorithms that enhance recovery success rates, ensuring that valuable memories and important documents are not permanently lost.

Download and Install: If you’re using a local backup or have previously downloaded videos, install the recovery software on your device.

Run a Recovery Scan: Follow the software instructions to scan for recoverable files. If you have previously downloaded videos to your device, this might help locate those files.

Evaluate Risks: Keep in mind that using third-party recovery tools comes with risks, such as malware or data breaches. Ensure you’re using trusted software with positive reviews.

While third-party tools may not be able to recover videos directly from Ring’s cloud, they can assist in retrieving files from devices where the videos may have been stored.

Step 5: Check Your Devices

It’s important to explore all possible avenues for retrieving deleted videos, including connected devices. Here’s how to do it:

Smartphones and Tablets: Check the devices you use to access the Ring app. Sometimes, videos may be automatically saved in your device’s photo gallery or files folder.

Cloud Backups: If you use cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox, check these accounts for any backups of your videos. If you have previously downloaded videos or taken screenshots, they may be saved here.

Local Backups: If you have ever downloaded videos from the Ring app to your computer, check your downloads folder or any designated backup locations.

Recover from Backups: If you regularly back up your devices, consider restoring from a backup that might contain the deleted videos.

By thoroughly checking all connected devices and backups, you may find copies of your deleted Ring videos.

Prevention Tips

To avoid the frustration of losing important footage in the future, consider these preventative measures:

Manage Video Storage: Regularly check your Ring app and account settings to monitor how much video storage you have left. Delete unimportant footage to free up space for new recordings.

Set Notifications: Enable notifications for low storage warnings within the Ring app. This will alert you before storage issues lead to automatic deletions.

Regular Downloads: Periodically download important videos to your local storage or a cloud service. This way, you have backups even if they get deleted from Ring.

Use Multiple Devices: If possible, set up multiple Ring devices. This allows for redundant coverage and more options for footage storage.

Educate Users: If multiple people have access to your Ring account, educate them on proper video management practices to prevent accidental deletions.

Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the risk of losing vital video footage in the future.

Retrieving deleted Ring videos can be a challenging process, but understanding the available options can help you navigate the recovery journey effectively. Whether through the Ring app, the website, or by contacting customer support, there are several avenues to explore.

While third-party recovery tools may provide additional support, it’s essential to approach them with caution and prioritize the security of your data. Furthermore, adopting proactive strategies, such as managing storage, setting notifications, and regularly downloading important videos, can help safeguard your recordings against accidental deletions.

Ultimately, the importance of maintaining access to your security footage cannot be overstated. Whether it’s monitoring your home or preserving memories, being prepared can make all the difference. By following the guidance in this comprehensive guide, you will be better equipped to handle situations involving deleted Ring videos and ensure that your security is never compromised.