Introduction
DepositFiles has been a long-standing name in the file-sharing / cyberlocker space. It advertises generous file limits, convenient sharing, and multiple upload options. But over time, user feedback, interface quirks, and serious security exposures have raised red flags. This DepositFiles review covers what works, what fails, and whether you should proceed with caution.
What Is DepositFiles?
DepositFiles is a file hosting / sharing service that allows users to upload files and distribute download links. It offers free and “Gold” (paid) account tiers, with different privileges. ScamAdviser+3Wikipedia+3TechRadar+3
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Free users can upload and download with restrictions. Wikipedia+1
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Gold / premium accounts offer higher speeds, parallel downloads, fewer wait times. Wikipedia+1
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The service supports FTP, remote uploads (i.e. importing from a URL), and a “Shared Uploader” tool. TechRadar
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It imposes a per-file maximum of ~10 GB. TechRadar+1
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File retention is tied to activity: for unregistered / free users, files may be removed if not downloaded within certain time limits; registered or premium users enjoy longer retention. AlternativeTo+2Wikipedia+2
What Works Well (Pros)
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High upload flexibility – Users can submit files via web upload, FTP, and remote URL sources. TechRadar
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Unlimited total storage (for paid / active users) – The service advertises that there is no strict cap on cumulative stored files, as long as activity continues. TechRadar
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Shared Uploader / embedded tools – The “Shared Uploader” tool allows others to upload into your account folder, useful for collective sharing workflows. TechRadar
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Legitimacy & long history – ScamAdviser labels DepositFiles as “very likely not a scam.” ScamAdviser
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Wide user base & traffic presence – The site is well known in file-hosting circles and is actively used across regions. AlternativeTo+2TechRadar+2
Major Issues & Criticisms (Cons)
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Poor interface & usability – TechRadar describes the UI as “archaic and uninspiring,” with hidden or non-intuitive controls. TechRadar
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No end-to-end encryption / privacy assurances – The service does not provide zero-knowledge encryption. TechRadar
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No private file mode, no previews – Files tend to be public by default; no robust previewing or detailed metadata options. TechRadar
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Inconsistent file retention & deletion – Free / inactive users risk file deletion if files aren’t accessed within a time window. AlternativeTo+2TechRadar+2
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Security breach / exposure – In mid-2023, researchers discovered DepositFiles had publicly exposed its environment configuration file, leaking database credentials, payment keys, email service credentials, and more. Cybernews
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Low trust among users – On Trustpilot, DepositFiles scores poorly (2.6/5) with complaints ranging from malicious popups, malware suspicion, to unstable downloads. Trustpilot
Security & Trust Assessment
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Config file exposure is among the most serious issues: storing environment credentials, database secrets, payment system details publicly is a critical security failure. Cybernews
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ScamAdviser’s assessment is more forgiving, labeling it as “very likely not a scam,” but noting hidden WHOIS registration and mixed reviews. ScamAdviser
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User vigilance is essential: many in privacy forums emphasize that you must encrypt and password-protect your files yourself, because relying on DepositFiles’ security is unwise. Reddit
FAQs
Is DepositFiles safe to use now?
It carries heightened risk. The config file breach is a serious red flag. Use only for non-sensitive content, and always encrypt before uploading.
Do free users get good download access?
Free users face wait times, slower bandwidth, and limited retention. Downloading large files or repeated use is constrained. TechRadar
Will my files stay forever?
Not unless you’re active / premium. Files can be removed after periods of inactivity, especially for unregistered or free users. AlternativeTo+1
Has DepositFiles been involved in malware / malicious behavior?
Some user reports claim redirections, aggressive notifications, and malware risk—especially when trying “free” downloads. Trustpilot
Conclusion
This DepositFiles review shows a file host with long presence and useful features, but one whose reputation and security have been compromised. The platform remains usable, especially for non-sensitive files, but massive caution is required.
Final Verdict: DepositFiles can serve as a backup or file sharing site if you treat it with skepticism. But due to its interface problems, security breaches, and weak privacy guarantees, it should not be trusted for anything critical without additional encryption and backup. Use alternatives if you need stronger privacy assurances.
DepositFiles
Free
The Good
- Flexible upload methods (FTP, remote, shared uploaders)
- Generous file size limits (up to 10 GB)
- Long operating history and known brand
The Bad
- Weak interface, usability problems
- No encryption or strong privacy guarantees
- File retention uncertain, especially for free/inactive users