Trading platforms like MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader automatically create log files that record every action taken on your account. These logs are crucial for resolving disputes, verifying trade execution, and protecting your rights. However, a highly unethical and serious malpractice occurs when a broker selectively deletes log files after complaints. By erasing or altering evidence, brokers aim to protect themselves from client disputes, regulatory action, or legal consequences. Recognising this tactic is vital for safeguarding your account and rights.

Why Would a Broker Delete Log Files After a Complaint?

Brokers are legally required to maintain accurate records for years, especially after a complaint is filed. When a broker selectively deletes log files after complaints, it often happens because:

• Hiding evidence of misconduct: Deleting logs removes proof of unfair slippage, order rejection, execution delays, or price manipulation.
• Weakening client complaints: Without full logs, traders have less evidence to prove broker wrongdoing.
• Avoiding regulatory penalties: Regulators like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) require brokers to provide full trading logs during investigations.
• Stalling legal proceedings: Missing evidence makes it harder for clients to file successful lawsuits or regulatory claims.
• Covering up internal errors: Brokers may erase logs that show technical problems or poor platform management.

Deleting client logs is not only unethical — it can also be illegal under financial regulations.

The Risks of Selective Log Deletion

Loss of critical evidence:
Without full logs, you cannot prove unfair practices like forced trade closures, failed stop losses, or price manipulation.

Reduced chances of winning complaints or disputes:
Regulators and financial ombudsman services often need detailed logs to resolve cases fairly.

Exposure to continued manipulation:
If a broker deletes logs to hide misconduct once, they are likely to do it again.

Severe loss of trust:
A broker selectively deletes log files after complaints situation destroys any trust in the platform’s fairness and transparency.

Potential for larger financial losses:
Without reliable records, you have little protection against future account issues.

Signs That a Broker Is Deleting or Altering Logs

Missing periods in your log files:
Entire days or specific events are absent from your downloaded or platform-visible logs.

Sudden loss of historical data after raising a complaint:
Your log files were complete before you complained but become incomplete or corrupted afterwards.

Inconsistent server responses:
When you request logs, the broker sends partial or suspiciously incomplete files.

Excuses about “technical errors” or “system updates”:
Brokers blame missing logs on technical problems that conveniently occur after complaints.

Refusal to provide server-side logs:
Genuine brokers offer server logs that are independently maintained and cannot be easily tampered with.

What to Do If Your Broker Deletes Log Files After a Complaint

Back up your logs regularly:
Download and save all platform logs at least weekly, and especially after major trades or withdrawals.

Request server-side logs in writing:
Demand full, unaltered server logs for the disputed period through a formal written request.

Document all suspicious behaviour:
Save emails, screenshots, and any evidence showing that logs were available before your complaint but missing afterwards.

Report immediately to the regulator:
If your broker is regulated, such as Intertrader, AvaTrade, TiBiGlobe, Vantage, or Markets.com, file a formal complaint with the appropriate authority.

Withdraw your funds:
If a broker manipulates evidence, move your funds to a transparent, well-regulated broker immediately.

Seek legal advice if necessary:
Consult a solicitor specialising in financial disputes to understand your options for recovery or further action.

How to Protect Yourself Against Log Deletion

Choose brokers regulated by top authorities:
Top regulators enforce strict record-keeping and full transparency requirements.

Export and save trading history regularly:
Keep your own independent copies of trade confirmations, account statements, and log files.

Use trusted platforms:
Platforms like MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and cTrader create local logs that you can independently back up.

Act immediately if discrepancies appear:
The longer you wait, the easier it becomes for brokers to alter or delete critical evidence.

Educate yourself about your trading rights:
Knowing what logs you are entitled to helps you push back firmly against manipulation.

Conclusion

When a broker selectively deletes log files after complaints, it is a clear act of bad faith that severely compromises your ability to protect your trading account. Traders must act swiftly to document all suspicious activity, secure their evidence, and escalate issues to regulatory authorities to ensure accountability.

Learn how to safeguard your trading records, defend against broker manipulation, and build strong trading practices by joining our Trading Courses. Stay empowered, stay protected, and ensure your financial success rests on fair and transparent trading conditions.