To help better safeguard UAB data, UAB IT will be changing the default sharing option for Microsoft 365 files and folders. Beginning May 17, the default sharing option will change to “specific people you choose.”

As part of this change, UAB IT encourages you to:

• Review file permissions on your shared documents in Microsoft 365 apps such as OneDrive, Teams and SharePoint. Review sharing permission instructions here, as well as guidance for revoking permissions here.
• Remove any unneeded personal documents containing sensitive data (for example, your tax returns) from Microsoft 365 apps.
• Report any potential security incidents to AskIT.

You should take particular care with files and folders containing Sensitive or Restricted data; share only with those who need access. Learn more about data classification here.

Other best practices for sharing files include:

• Only share documents with individuals who have a legitimate need to access the information.
• Use the “Share with people you choose” option to ensure that only the intended recipients have access to the information.
• Regularly review the sharing permissions of your documents to ensure that they are not being shared too broadly.
• Set an expiration date for shared links to ensure that access to the document is automatically revoked after a certain period of time.
• Use password protection to add an additional layer of security when sharing sensitive documents.