Google is rolling out a major security upgrade to Drive for desktop, bringing AI-powered ransomware detection to help stop attacks before they spread.
TLDR:
- Google Drive for desktop now includes AI-based ransomware detection and file recovery features.
- The AI model is trained on millions of real-world ransomware samples.
- When ransomware activity is detected, syncing is paused immediately, and users are notified with recovery steps.
- The feature is currently in open beta, with broader rollout planned by end of year.
What Happened?
Google announced a new security feature for its Drive desktop app that uses artificial intelligence to spot ransomware attacks in real time. When suspicious activity is detected, the app halts syncing, preventing files from being corrupted in the cloud. Users are then guided through restoring clean versions of their files.
How Google’s AI Stops Ransomware in Its Tracks?
Ransomware continues to be one of the most damaging cyber threats. According to 2024 data from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, there were 5,289 ransomware attacks globally, a 15 percent increase from the previous year. The average cost of a ransomware breach is now estimated at over $5 million.
Google’s new approach doesn’t just rely on traditional antivirus methods. Instead of trying to catch malicious code before it runs, this system works even if the malware has already activated. Here’s how it works:
- Trained on millions of ransomware samples, the AI engine constantly monitors Drive for desktop.
- It looks for patterns like mass encryption or file corruption, which are key signs of an ongoing ransomware attack.
- Once detected, Drive automatically pauses cloud syncing, keeping infected files from reaching other devices.
- Users receive desktop and email alerts, along with simple recovery instructions to restore previous versions of their files.
Available for Businesses First, Coming to More Users Soon
Currently, the AI-powered detection system is in open beta and is only available to organizations using Business, Enterprise, Education, and Frontline Workspace plans. File restoration tools, however, are available more broadly, including for Workspace Individual subscribers and personal Google accounts.
To use the new feature, users must have Drive for desktop version 114 or later. Older versions will still pause file syncing when threats are found but won’t have the full detection and alert system.
Admins have control over these settings through the Admin console, where they can see detailed alerts in the security center, along with full audit logs. Both ransomware detection and file restoration are enabled by default, but admins can choose to disable them if needed.
Google’s Luke Camery and Kristina Behr, who lead product development for Drive and Workspace, explained, “This new layer of defense identifies the core signature of a ransomware attack and rapidly intervenes to put a protective bubble around a user’s files.”
What TechKV Thinks?
This is a smart and overdue move by Google. Ransomware is not just an IT issue anymore, it’s a business continuity nightmare. By placing AI in the frontline of detection and pausing syncing before damage spreads, Google is shifting from reaction to prevention.
As someone who works with digital tools every day, I find this incredibly reassuring. It’s especially helpful that restoration doesn’t require advanced skills or expensive third-party tools. Just a few clicks, and you’re back on track. This could be a game changer for small teams and large enterprises alike.
