Are you storing your backups on a Hetzner StorageBox, too? Then, you may have encountered a problem when trying to delete files and folders.
The exact error may vary depending on how you access your Hetzner StorageBox. In my case, I am using SSH and SFTP, which are secure and recommended ways to connect to the service, but FTPs or other methods are available, too.
When I cleaned up my StorageBox recently, I came across this error, which left me scratching my head:
SFTP Protocol Error 3 (-31)
Another error message I got when using SSH was "Permission denied" while trying to remove an old, empty directory.
It turns out the solution was remarkably easy and has its root in how permissions for sub-accounts are applied to the file system. Something that even on the command line is not terribly easy to discern:
You need to remove the sub-account you created in the control panel at Hetzner's Robot, then instruct your remote file transfer client to remove the folder or files again. Simples 😄
Bonus tip
Another tip for anyone struggling to remove very deep folder structures, such as those created by your favourite backup software, is to use Midnight Commander (MC). It's a command-line graphical user interface with positive 1980s retro vibes, but don't let that distract you.
Connect to your StorageBox, navigate to the offending folder, and hit F8 to remove it and everything else in it.
Did this address your issue(s) deleting files and folders on your Hetzner StorageBox? Let me know how it went by posting a comment below this post.