Claude Code AI agent deleted 48,000 files in under two minutes
A Claude Code AI agent accidentally deleted approximately 48,000 files and corrupted a Git database while attempting repairs on a developer's local stock-options data repository.
Developer tasking AI with repairs
A software developer posted a thread on Reddit describing how they assigned an AI coding assistant to fix a collection of files. The developer instructed the agent to create copies, apply changes, and test the repairs without touching the original working files.
AI mishandled testing environment setup
While ten repair jobs completed successfully, the final task involved rebuilding a testing environment known as a mirror. The agent incorrectly interpreted instructions regarding Windows junctions and deleted around 48,000 live files instead of creating a safe copy.
Community reaction and lessons learned
The incident destroyed the repository's Git object database and drew mockery from the online developer community for the lack of backups. Experts now stress that remote version control systems like GitHub should be used before allowing AI to touch production work.
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