Can api see deleted mails eve onlione

The eternal question of deleted emails!

In general, APIs can't see deleted emails, even on online services like Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo. Here's why:

  1. Deleted emails are removed from the database: When you delete an email, the email service provider (ESP) removes the email from their database. This means that the email is no longer stored on their servers, making it inaccessible to APIs.
  2. APIs typically access email data through APIs: Most email services provide APIs that allow developers to access email data, such as reading, sending, and managing emails. These APIs typically don't have access to deleted emails, as they are designed to interact with the email service's database, which no longer contains the deleted email.
  3. Some email services may store deleted emails in a separate database: Some email services, like Gmail, store deleted emails in a separate database or "trash" folder for a limited time (e.g., 30 days). However, even in these cases, APIs typically don't have access to this separate database, and the deleted emails are still not accessible.

That being said, there are some exceptions and potential workarounds:

  1. Email service provider's own APIs: Some email services, like Gmail, provide APIs that allow developers to access deleted emails, but only for a limited time (e.g., 30 days). These APIs are typically designed for specific use cases, such as data recovery or compliance purposes.
  2. Third-party email archiving services: Some third-party services, like email archiving solutions, may have access to deleted emails through their own APIs or data scraping techniques. These services often require explicit permission from the email service provider and may have specific use cases, such as compliance or e-discovery.
  3. Data scraping or hacking: In some cases, malicious actors may use data scraping or hacking techniques to access deleted emails. However, this is illegal and unethical, and I strongly advise against attempting to access deleted emails through such means.

In summary, APIs typically can't see deleted emails, even on online services like Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo. While there are some exceptions and workarounds, accessing deleted emails without permission is generally not possible or ethical.