# Recover unsaved map work

Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface.

Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery
Updated: 2026-10-22

Recovery copies help with interrupted editing on an unlocked map. Save map is still the way to keep a named editable map in your account.

## 1. Open Recovery copies

While signed in, open the account menu above Save, Open and New and choose the small Recovery copies… link at the bottom. On a small screen open your account from the compact controls. Check the map name, type, source and date in the list.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery#recovery--find)

## 2. Device and account copies

A device copy belongs to this browser’s local storage. An account copy is available after it has synced while connected. Their times can differ if the connection was interrupted. Clearing browser data or using another browser can remove access to a device copy. Do not assume a missing account copy means nothing was saved locally.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery#recovery--sources)

## 3. Recover a copy, then inspect it

Choose the appropriate recovery entry and read any prompt about your current work. Recover it into the editor and check the colouring, labels and other items. Save the recovered work under a useful name when satisfied. Do not remove a recovery copy until you have kept what you need.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery#recovery--inspect)

## 4. Check whose workspace you are in

For team work, use the correct signed-in account and team. A recovery copy does not grant access to another person’s maps or let two people override one another’s editing. If the tool says another colleague is editing, wait or ask them to finish.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery#recovery--team)

## 5. Recovery is not version history or password reset

Recovery helps with interrupted edits. Save copy makes a separate editable saved map; Rename changes a saved name; Undo changes the open map. Forgotten passwords use Set or reset my password. If the copy you need is absent, contact GBMaps with the map name and approximate editing time without deleting other copies.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery#recovery--different)

### What this looks like

Current GBMaps controls with example maps and account details. Choose View larger to see the details.

![Recovery copies in the account menu — GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/help-20261022-account.png?v=1792654463)

[**Recovery copies in the account menu**](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=recovery#recovery--find)

Use the link at the bottom. Your invoices and Renew access are separate account actions.

## Related guides

- [Save, open & keep a separate copy](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=save)
- [Your account, login & logout](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=account)
- [Find, reopen & manage saved files](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=saved-files)
- [Teams: buy access, invite people and share maps](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=team-access)
- [Asked to sign in again while working](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=sign-in-again)