Deleting a Google Drive shortcut removes a navigation reference; it does not delete the original file or folder that the shortcut points to. The main risk is selecting the original by mistake, particularly when both items have similar names.
Confirm that the selected item is a shortcut
In Drive on the web, inspect the item and its shortcut indicator before using Remove. Check its location and, if necessary, open its details or target to understand what it references. Do not infer item type solely from the filename.
If you are uncertain, open the original through the shortcut and record its link first. Then return to the containing folder and select the shortcut itself. Avoid selecting multiple items during this check.
Remove only the navigation item
Right-click the shortcut and choose Remove when your permissions allow it. A shortcut in someone else’s folder may not be removable by you. Ask the shortcut owner or folder manager instead of deleting the target as a workaround.
There is usually no need to empty all of Drive’s Trash to tidy one shortcut. Permanent deletion is a separate action and can affect other trashed items if performed broadly. Keep cleanup limited to the specific reference you have identified.
Verify that the original remains available
Open the original link using the authorized account after removing the shortcut. Confirm its contents and expected location. Other people may have their own shortcuts to that original, and those references are independent of the one you removed.
If the original does not open, inspect access or target availability separately. A broken shortcut can reflect a prior permission change or deleted target; removing the shortcut neither caused nor repaired those underlying conditions.
References
Reviewed against the linked official product guidance on November 3, 2026. Features, limits, screen labels, and access can vary by account, platform, region, and organization policy.