Google Workspace Rolls Out New "Badge" Feature for File Visibility

Google has introduced a new security “badge” feature for Workspace users, adding file-level warnings to help identify potentially risky documents from outside domains. Starting May 5, 2025, users will see visual badges in Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides when files originate or are shared from external sources.

In addition to the badge, a pop-up alert will provide more information about the file and offer users the option to report suspicious content for potential abuse review. 

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These new measures are designed to enhance user awareness and reduce the risk of phishing or malware, particularly in collaborative work environments that involve multiple organizations

The new badge feature will be enabled by default across Google Workspace. However, administrators have the ability to disable it at the domain or organizational unit level. End users will not have individual control over this setting but will benefit from the visual and interactive warnings once the rollout is complete.

The admin rollout began on April 28, and the full deployment for both administrators and users is expected to conclude in the following weeks. This update aligns with Google’s broader goal of strengthening security for remote and hybrid teams.

Remember that badges will not appear if internal Google Groups access a file, even when external members are involved. However, the badge will appear when a file is accessed via service accounts, even if those accounts are internally owned.