Upload links were already a secure way to collect documents, but the recent enhancements provide even more safeguards. Couchdrop's latest Upload Link updates add two layers of protection that work invisibly in the background while keeping file collection as simple as ever.

What are Upload Links again?

Upload Links are web portals that let external parties upload files directly to your designated folders without needing accounts or complex setup. Think of them as a digital drop box, somewhere where anyone can drop files to you. They were already secure, but the improvements make them more so. Now, that box can be locked so only trusted users can drop in items, meaning less risk of unwanted or malicious objects. 

This makes them perfect for collecting documents from clients, receiving documents from suppliers, or gathering project files from partners.  The new password protection and auto-locking mechanisms make sure that your Upload Links are only used by the right people. 

Why do some users need extra security layers?

The new security updates will make Upload Links a viable document collection method for many more use cases. Compliance teams often need granular control over who accesses file collection points. Legal firms handling sensitive client documents want to ensure only authorized parties can submit files. Healthcare organizations need to meet strict regulatory requirements for any external file collection.

Enhanced protections make these viable use cases for Upload Links, as well as other situations that call for greater security. 

How do password protection and auto lockout work?

When enabled, users need both the Upload Link and the correct password to upload files. This allows you to share the link more broadly but only provide the password to authorized users to protect from unauthorized access. 

Password protection can be added to new or existing upload links. Simply fill in the optional password field and save the change to have the password take effect immediately.

The automatic lockout feature works silently in the background. After five failed access attempts, the system temporarily blocks further attempts to that Upload Link. This stops both invalid users and brute-force attacks from breaking through and gaining access. 

Once the automatic lockout is engaged, the Upload Link has to be manually re-enabled by clicking the more options icon beside the upload link name in Couchdrop and choosing Unlock. 

Upload Links that have a password will have a key icon beside the name in Couchdrop. If auto lockout has kicked in, a lock icon will appear beside the name. 

What does this mean for your file collection workflows?

While Upload Links now have more options for security, these settings are completely optional. You can still get the same user-friendly Upload Link experience for general file collection, and enable security controls when situations demand them. 

Your external users still get the straightforward upload experience they expect. Your compliance and security teams get the additional controls they require. Everyone wins, and your workflows stay smooth.