Google has recently upgraded its Drive for desktop application with a cutting-edge AI-powered ransomware detection system.
This new tool detects ransomware assaults, pauses file synchronisation to preserve data, and restores infected files quickly. This strengthens Google Drive’s defence against one of the biggest cybersecurity dangers to individuals and organisations.
“Our AI-powered detection in Drive for desktop identifies the core signature of a ransomware attack, an attempt to encrypt or corrupt files en masse, and rapidly intervenes to put a protective bubble around a user’s files,” said Luke Camery and Kristina Behr, product leaders at Google Drive and Workspace.
How Google Drive’s AI detects ransomware attacks
The AI ransomware detection relies on a specialised model trained using millions of real-world ransomware samples to recognise suspicious file changes. When unusual activity suggests ransomware encryption or damage attempts, the system automatically stops syncing those files to prevent the spread and further damage.
Users receive immediate alerts on their desktops and by email, allowing them to act fast. The AI model continuously adapts by analysing file changes and incorporating updated threat intelligence from VirusTotal to spot emerging ransomware threats.
Easy restoration of files after ransomware detection
Google Drive provides an easy-to-use interface for restoring damaged files to earlier, healthy versions when the ransomware infection has been eliminated from the user’s machine. Thanks to this rollback function, multiple files from particular times before the assault can be restored simultaneously.
Google Workspace administrators can keep control and visibility during the incident by receiving alerts in the Admin console. Commercial Google Workspace users can benefit from ransomware detection and recovery features, which strengthen data security while reducing downtime.
This update reflects Google’s commitment to leveraging AI in cloud security. It offers enhanced protection and rapid response measures built directly into Drive for desktop on Windows and macOS platforms.