How to avoid downloading malicious files on Google Drive

Google has one of the best apps for work and productivity, and that’s why the Software company continues to amass millions of users. This has, however, given cybercriminals the chance to prey on other people by invading into their Google Drive space.

On January 6, 2022, DarkReading’s report confirmed hackers now use the comment feature in Google Docs to email victims and lure them into clicking malicious links.

As per DarkReading,
“To carry out this attack, the threat actor creates a Google Docs document and adds a comment containing a malicious link. They add the victim to the comment using “@”. This action automatically sends the target an email with a link to the Google Docs file. The email displays the full comment, including the bad links and other text added by the attacker.”

Google has therefore responded and will restrict access to files that violate its terms of service. It’s possible that these measures prevent the spread of malware pending the time hackers find a method around it in the near future.

Google made an early announcement concerning this during its Cloud Next 2021 conference, October Edition. Account owners who use Google Workspace should expect to see a new feature that alerts them anytime they open a dubious file from Google Drive. There is a warning system when it detects potentially harmful files in your Google Drive.

According to Google, it might take a few weeks for the feature to reach you. “Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on January 20, 2022”, the company revealed. Users who have “Scheduled Updates” enabled, will be able to have access once it’s released after one week.

How to avoid downloading malicious files into your device

1. Whether or not you receive Google’s prompt or warning, do not open or download files from strangers. Strangers are users you’re not subscribed to, nor have you interacted with via email or exchanged emails before.
2. When you receive an email stating that a document has been shared with you, read it carefully. Verify that it is from a trusted source and that the email address is valid.
3. Google Drive allows you to control what content others can share with you. You can disable sharing if you don’t use it.
4. Search for antivirus software that is reliable and install it on your device(s).
5. Google has a Help Center page where you can learn more about how Drive protects your privacy & keeps you in control. Be sure to read and understand how the software company plans to keep you safe online while using its products.