Ransomware doesn't just target your local drives—cloud storage can be vulnerable too. This article shows you how Google Drive ransomware detection works and offers the best ransomware protection software.
Yes, Google Drive files can be encrypted by ransomware — but not in the way many people assume.
Google Drive itself is not typically “infected” directly. Instead, ransomware usually attacks your local computer first, then encrypted files are automatically synced to Google Drive. Because Google Drive sync mirrors file changes, the encrypted versions can quickly replace the clean originals stored in the cloud.
Yes, Google Drive has built-in AI-powered ransomware detection for Drive for desktop (Windows and macOS) that automatically identifies malicious encryption, pauses file syncing to prevent further spread, and enables file restoration. This feature is available for commercial Google Workspace plans, with protections designed to detect and contain ransomware threats.
Google Drive ransomware detection is enabled by default. You can follow the steps below to enable Drive file restoration:
1. Sign in with an administrator account to the Google Admin console.
2. Go to Menu and then Apps > Google Workspace > Drive and Docs.
3. Click Malware and Ransomware and then Ransomware detection.
4. Click Drive file restoration.
5. For Allow multiple file version recovery, select On. Click Save.
When Drive detects unusual activity that suggests a ransomware attack, it automatically pauses syncing of affected files. Users then receive an alert on their desktop and via email, guiding them to restore their files. Learn how to restore Google Drive files from ransomware attacks below:
🔔 Important: Before restoration, you should use a trusted antivirus or anti-malware program to scan your computer and remove the ransomware.
1. In the ransomware warning pop-up, click Take action.
2. In the next window, click the link Use the Drive restoration tool.
3. You’ll enter the Google Drive website. Review your file change history, select the version you want to roll back to, and click Restore to this time.
💡 Note: You can't select individual files to restore.
4. Confirm file restoration and click Restore.
5. A progress page displays which automatically updates once the restore completes.
💡 Notes:
AOMEI Backupper Professional is dedicated backup software for Windows that includes integrated ransomware protection. It protects backups and specific file types from unauthorized encryption and provides dependable recovery options in the event that ransomware bypasses your defenses.
Download AOMEI Backupper and use it to protect your Google Drive files from ransomware now.
Step 1. Install and run AOMEI Backupper. Click Tools > Ransomware Protection.
Step 2. In the pop-up window, turn on the switch for Enable Ransomware Protection.
Step 3. The first protection option is checked by default. Check Protect Specific Files and Folders and input your Google Drive local folder path (e.g., C:\Users\Username\My Drive).
💡 Note: The Google Drive local folder is only available when you enable the Mirror files option in Google Drive for Desktop.
Step 4. Confirm your settings and click OK.
For organizations using Google Workspace, basic account security isn’t enough. Businesses face higher risks, including targeted phishing, credential theft, insider threats, and API-based attacks. Here’s how to build a stronger defense.
1️⃣ Strengthen Security with Google Workspace Admin Controls
Google Workspace provides powerful administrative tools that significantly improve ransomware resilience. Key configurations include:
2️⃣ Implement the Principle of Least Privilege
Many ransomware incidents escalate because users have excessive permissions. Best practices include:
3️⃣ Deploy Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
Because most Google Drive ransomware infections originate from synced devices, endpoint security is essential. Businesses should deploy:
4️⃣ Use Independent Cloud Backup for Google Drive
Google Workspace does not provide immutable, air-gapped backups by default. Version history is helpful, but not sufficient for enterprise-grade recovery. A business-ready backup strategy should include:
That’s all for how to enable Google Drive ransomware protection. Both Google Drive built-in features and powerful ransomware protection software can give you a hand. Actually, AOMEI Backupper can do much more than ransomware protection. You can use it to backup PC to cloud, external hard drive, or NAS, etc. Don’t hesitate to try it out!