Important security update for Drive
Google is implementing a major security update for Google Drive file sharing links which increases the security of those files. The update will change the links (URLs) for some Drive files shared in 2017 or earlier. This will impact individuals accessing these files that are linked or embedded on websites or posted elsewhere.
On or around July 26, 2021, Google will send a direct email notification to members of the VCU community with Google Workspace accounts who own or manage affected files impacted by this security update. The email will provide instructions on steps to take and will include a link to view a list of impacted files you own or manage in Google Drive (My Drive/Shared Drive).
What steps do I need to take?
We strongly recommend reading the instructions provided in the email sent by Google and taking action on affected documents. You will need to share or embed the new links (URLs) for affected documents for the documents to be accessible where they were located previously. Instructions for locating and taking action on impacted documents can be found in here: How to Identify Files Impacted by the Drive Security Update and Locate New URLs
Note: Only VCU community members with impacted files will receive the email sent by Google. A banner will also be displayed in Google Drive to notify users of the security update.
Who is impacted?
Internal and external users who have not previously viewed an impacted file will be affected. When attempting to access impacted files, affected individuals will see a page to request access. Access approval requests are sent via email to the owner (for files not in a Shared Drive) or managers (for files in a Shared Drive). Taking action on impacted files by updating their links where they are located will reduce the amount of access requests sent to owners or managers.
What types of files are impacted?
Only non-native Google files, such as Microsoft Word documents, PDFs, etc., shared prior to 2017 are impacted by the security update. Google files (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, etc.) will not be impacted. The email sent by Google will include a link to view a list of impacted files that you own or manage.
Additional Questions
If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact us at drgee@vcu.edu.
Categories Google Drive, Google Feature Updates and Changes, Google Workspace News, Important Changes