Clearer Attachment Security in KAUST Gmail
KAUST Gmail now tells you when an attachment has been blocked and what to do about it carefully and securely.
What changed
Previously, emails from external accounts containing certain attachments were blocked silently, meaning the message never arrived and you had no way of knowing.
Now, the email is delivered and the risky attachment is removed. A clear notice replaces it so you know exactly what was blocked and what happened.
No more guessing. No more missing emails entirely.
What you will see in Gmail
If an incoming email contains a file type that poses a security risk, the attachment is removed and replaced with a clear notice. The notice tells you that an attachment was removed, why it was blocked, and what to do next.
Click the image to view it larger in a new tab.
What to do next
Before taking any action, stop and ask yourself:
- Were you expecting this email and this attachment?
- Do you recognize the sender and have a reason to trust them?
- Do you actually need this file?
If the answer to any of those is no or uncertain, do not pursue the attachment. Report it to KAUST IT.
If you were genuinely expecting the file and trust the sender, contact them through a separate, verified channel, not by replying to the same email, to confirm they sent it intentionally. Only then should you decide on next steps.
When in doubt, contact KAUST IT before acting.
Why attachments get blocked
Research and academic work frequently involves datasets, scripts, compressed folders, and technical files. Some file types can carry harmful code, even unintentionally, and even from trusted senders. Blocking high-risk attachments protects:
- Your KAUST account and data
- Your device and lab systems
- The wider KAUST network
The email still arrives. Only the risk doesn't.
Learn more and get help
Tip: A blocked attachment is a signal worth taking seriously. Don't try to work around it. If you weren't expecting the file, don't chase it.
