Can the same file exist on several devices and in the cloud?¶
Yes. The same file can exist in the cloud and on several devices at the same time.
Cloud synchronisation and downloading make this normal.
What this means in practice¶
A user may upload the file from one computer and later access it from a phone, tablet and second computer. A shared user may download another copy. An automated backup or synchronisation tool may place the file on devices without direct user action.
Also consider account and device sharing. Several people may have access to the same synced folder or shared link.
For attribution, identify the earliest known appearance, the upload or creation route, the relevant account and the devices connected at the time.
What this may show¶
Cloud version history may show server-side changes. Device evidence may show when a local copy was downloaded, opened, edited or deleted.
What this does not show on its own¶
The dangerous assumption is that finding the file on one device proves it was created or first received there.
The copies may not remain identical. One device may hold an older version. Another may contain a preview, cached copy or edited local version that has not yet synchronised.
The same filename does not prove the files are identical. Compare file identifiers, hashes, sizes, metadata and content where available.
What to do next¶
Do not assume that deletion from one device removes every copy. The file may remain in the cloud, on other devices, in another user’s folder, in deleted items or in backup.
Key takeaway
Multiple cloud and device copies are normal, so map each copy’s location, version and route of arrival before drawing conclusions about creation, possession or deletion.