It seems like some Snapchat users are running into a frustrating roadblock when trying to back up their Memories. Multiple reports on Reddit describe the same problem: requesting a data download through the “My Data” feature, only to receive a file labeled “empty export” instead of their photos and videos.

The issue appears to have surfaced in recent days. One user posted on r/SnapchatHelp explaining they tried every combination possible when selecting data to include. They attempted exporting just Memories, Memories with JSON files, Memories with chat history, and even all three options together. Each attempt resulted in the same “empty export” message.

snapchat-my-data-empty-export-complaint

Users claim that they are following Snapchat’s official process correctly. They’re logging in through desktop browsers (Chrome, Safari, and others), selecting their preferred data options, waiting for the email confirmation, and then clicking the download link. But when they open the file, there’s nothing inside.

Another thread from two days ago shows users experiencing identical problems. One commenter tried downloading through both Chrome and Safari on their laptop, hoping switching browsers might help. It didn’t. They mentioned there’s no clear way to even contact Snapchat support about the issue.

snapchat-empty-export-complaint

This is confusing some users because they say that they successfully downloaded their data from other accounts just last month without any hiccups. One user in a third recent thread expressed frustration at having “so many memories” and not wanting to download them individually, which would be the only workaround if the bulk export continues failing.

While the number of reports isn’t massive yet, the consistency of the problem across different users, browsers, and data selection combinations suggests something changed on Snapchat’s end recently. Some speculated the company might be pushing users toward their subscription model by making free data exports difficult, though there’s no evidence to confirm that theory.

Have you tried downloading your Snapchat Memories through My Data recently? Are you getting empty exports too, or did your download work without any problems?

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Dwayne Cubbins
2772 Posts

I cover fast-moving stories across apps, online platforms, and everyday tech — phones, wearables, consoles, and whatever else people are fighting with this week. Bugs, rollouts, scams, policy enforcement, and the occasional internet-culture rabbit hole are all fair game. My goal is simple — make confusing tech news readable. When I'm not working, I'm working out or chilling with my dog. Got a tip? You can find me on X @dcubbins.

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