How Transparent is WeTransfer?

Important legal changes to the popular file sharing system WeTransfer have caused concern amongst users.

Earlier this month, WeTransfer updated its terms to include broad language that meant the platform could use content for AI training, creating a backlash from users, particularly the creative sectors.

This resulted in WeTransfer clarifying the wording of the terms, but there are still concerns around the platform having access to your valuable commercial and creative content.

Explained Daniel: “These changes in terms are quite worrying. It means that the company has a royalty free license to use your content and I’m not sure why they need this, when the whole premise of WeTransfer is to send files from person to person. It isn’t supposed to be a data storing facility.

“People need to think very carefully about how they’re using the service. Whilst it’s fine for sending photos and non-commercially sensitive information, it really isn’t appropriate for businesses to use it to transfer valuable intellectual property. There are other secure options out there.”

If you are using WeTransfer, it’s worth being aware of the following:

• Any valuable IP (such as designs, product formulas, scripts) is being processed and stored on WeTransfer’s servers, which you don’t control.
• WeTransfer does not offer end-to-end encryption, which means the company can technically access your files.
• Third party risks. Files stored even temporarily on WeTransfer can be intercepted in rare cases by malicious actors or phishing links. There is also the risk of recipient errors, if you mistype an email and the wrong person receives the link.
• If you use WeTransfer, follow these basic protocols:

• Think very carefully about what information you are transferring.
• If you are sending confidential files, encrypt them yourself before uploading.
• Use password protection when you send files and set a limit for it to expire.
• Never share links in public or unsecured channels.
• Keep your own back-ups – don’t rely on cloud services for storage.