Files disappear when creating a new folder

I'm new to mac....got a macbook this week. I'm in Iraq so I have very limited access to anything. No internet for my mac at the moment...so I can't update even if there are ones. I assume I have the currenct version of everything though. The question...
While switching over my files I decided to reorganize them. I'm working on my external HD and creating many new folders for all my files. On numerous occasions now (4) I have created a new file the standard way...right click>new>file...then named it. On these occasions I have done this it has renamed the previous file I had worked in (even though it was not selected) and then the contents of the file disappeared. This leaves me with the new file I created and another identical file of the same name...now with nothing in it. Some of my files I have backed up, but the last one deleted many videos that I didn't. Happens randomly at no particular time. If I select the file and view its contents often it will briefly change its name back to the original name, but still nothing in it. Then next selection of anything will switch it back. Have not been able to fine the files anywhere. Tired of losing my files. Any ideas??? Thanks.

Hi Craig and Welcome to Apple Discussions....
First of all, thank you for all you are doing. It's so appreciated! Just be safe and come home soon.
Now... I have a feeling your external hard drive is the culprit. Read here:
Changing the names of items
You can easily change the name of a file, folder, or disk on your computer.
IMPORTANT: To avoid problems using Mac OS X or applications on your computer, don't move or change the names of folders that came with your system (such as the Library folder or your home). You should also not change the names of applications or items associated with specific applications. If you accidentally change the name of an installed item and you experience problems, you can change the name back.
Locate the item you want to rename on your desktop or in a Finder window.
Click the item to select it, then click the name. The name is highlighted and you will be able to edit it.
Type the new name and press Return.
Some document names have a file extension, such as ".txt" or ".jpg." If you change the name of a file and delete the extension, some applications may no longer recognize the file. To ensure the file can be recognized by the application that created it, change only the part of the name that comes before the extension, or open the file using the appropriate application, then save the file with a new name.
You cannot change the name of an item in the Finder window's sidebar. You must locate the item on your desktop or in a Finder window to highlight and change the name.
And more here:
Getting information about files and folders
You can view and modify information about files, applications, and volumes in the Info window. This information can include:
Comments that Spotlight can search on
Who can view and modify the item.
The applications that can open it.
Metadata that describes a file's contents and how it was created. For example, a photo's Info window may contain the picture's dimensions, exposure time, and the make and model of the camera.
To see information for one or more items, select the items and choose File > Get Info. An Info window opens for each selected item.
To see a summary of information about several items, select the items then hold down the Control key as you choose File > Get Summary Info. A window summarizes information on all selected items, including their total size.
To see information about each item as you select it, select one of the items then hold down the Option key as you choose File > Show Inspector. An Inspector window displays information on the selected item. When you select another item, the Inspector's contents are replaced with information on that item.
I realize that's a lot to digest and your time might be limited. This is something that only takes a few minutes and might help immediately.
Go to MacintoshHD/Applications/Utilities and locae Disk Utility. Launch DU, select MacintoshHD in the panel on the left and then click: Repair Disk Permissions. Depending on the size of your drive, it should only take a few minutes. When it's finished, Quit Disk Utility from the Menu.
Here's how to find out exactly which Mac OS you are running. Click the Apple logo top left of your screen then click, About This Mac. A pane will open. Just under "Mac OS X" will be the version number. ie., 10.4.x
Reboot your MacBook and see if this helps.... I'm retired and have time... if you need one on one help e-mail me: [email protected]
It's the least I can do
Carolyn

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