Secure File Sharing in GCC High: What Contractors Need to Know
Secure File Sharing in GCC High: What Contractors Need to Know
Blog Article
For defense contractors and organizations handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), secure file sharing is critical—and complicated. Moving to Microsoft GCC High introduces a different set of rules and expectations for sharing data both internally and externally. Whether you're managing subcontractors or collaborating with government agencies, it’s vital to know how file sharing works post-migration.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to securely share files in GCC High and how expert GCC High migration services ensure you’re doing it right from day one.
1. Internal Sharing Is Streamlined and Secure
Within your organization:
OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams all support internal sharing
Files are encrypted and monitored with Microsoft Purview and DLP
Sensitivity labels guide users on handling CUI and export controls
✅ Internal file sharing remains easy and user-friendly, while improving security.
2. External Sharing Requires Careful Planning
GCC High restricts:
Guest access to SharePoint and Teams
Sharing with non-GCC High tenants
Use of consumer cloud tools like Dropbox or Google Drive
✅ You must whitelist specific domains and ensure all external partners meet compliance standards.
3. Use Secure Alternatives for Inter-Agency Collaboration
If your partners are not in GCC High:
Use encrypted email with expiration and tracking
Create secure VPN or Azure B2B access options
Build isolated collaboration portals under strict policies
✅ Professional services help design compliant, audit-ready sharing pathways.
4. Labeling and Classification Are Your Best Friends
Sensitive files should be:
Labeled using Microsoft Purview (e.g., “CUI – No External Sharing”)
Auto-classified based on content and context
Governed by automated DLP rules to prevent unauthorized exposure
✅ Classification is your first line of defense for both user error and insider threats.
5. Auditing and Alerts Keep You Ahead of Risks
GCC High enables:
Full audit logging of file access, edits, and shares
Alerting for unusual sharing behavior
Integration with Microsoft Sentinel for real-time monitoring
✅ You can prove compliance and respond fast to threats.