WeTransfer updates terms of use: time for a safer alternative?

Sharing a video with colleagues, files with a client or a portfolio with a potential client, WeTransfer has been a popular and easy-to-use solution for sending large files for years. However, since Tuesday, July 15, the platform has caused uproar and confusion by changing its terms of use.

This change raises questions about the security and reliability of the platform. Those who read the fine print will see that it is time to be extra vigilant - even after the change the company has made again.

What is WeTransfer allowed to do with your files?

The terms of use, which were amended June 23 and go into effect August 8, state that users grant WeTransfer a ‘perpetual, worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, transferable, sublicensable license. Initially, it explicitly stated that WeTransfer may use any files users send to train and sell AI models to other commercial parties.

Terms adjusted again, but is it enough?

The new terms of use caused a lot of controversy and media attention. That made WeTransfer amend their terms again on July 15. The paragraph is now shorter and no longer mentions, for example, that files can be used for AI training. The company now says, ‘You hereby grant us a royalty-free license to use your content to operate, develop and improve our services.’

But what does that mean? In plain language: You retain ownership of your files, but you give the company permission to use those files to operate, improve or further develop their services. But in doing so, the company does not name what ‘the service’ is, so that can include anything WeTransfer offers as a service, now and in the future. So WeTransfer keeps it vague what this paragraph in the terms and conditions means. Some examples of what this paragraph may mean:

• WeTransfer may store your files on their servers.
• WeTransfer may analyze it to improve their algorithms.
• WeTransfer may use it to test or develop new features.

And that's what you want to avoid when your files contain, for example, personal data on company information.

Maximum secure file transfer, from sender to receiver.

Don't want to risk your files ending up in an AI system or with a third party? Then it's time to look at WeTransfer alternatives: meetSecure Dropzone, our in-house solution for secure file transfer. Secure Dropzone was originally developed for sharing sensitive security reporting with clients, allowingmaximum securityis in the DNA of the applciation. Key features of Secure drop zone:

• European servers:All data stays within the EU, with the option to keep data even within the Netherlands.
• User-friendly:No complex settings, system maintenance and detecting incomplete file transfers.
• Automatic clearance:Files are automatically deleted after a set period of time.
• Customizable permissions:You decide who has access to which files and for how long.
• Detailed audit logs:For supervision and compliance.

Learn more