Blocking security-critical file formats for e-mail attachments

Since 16.03.2020, the receipt of e-mails with security-critical file formats in the attachment has been prevented by the mail server. The following file formats are affected by this:

1. Macro-enabled Office files

    Word: .doc, .docm, .dot, .dotm
    Powerpoint: .potm, .ppa, .ppam, .ppsm, .ppt, .pptm
    Excel: .xla, .xlam, .xls, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlt, .xltm

    The lock can also affect data formats based on .doc formats, for example
    Autodesk Inventor files (IPT and IAM).

2. Encrypted .zip archives in unencrypted emails

In both cases, the mail server will reject receipt and send the sender an error message indicating the excluded file format.

A permissible and recommendable workaround is for the communication partner to send you the Office file in a current and non-macro-capable file format (.docx, .pptx, .xlsx). The file format can easily be changed by the user via the "Save file as..." dialogue.

Instead of sending encrypted .zip archives by e-mail to exchange confidential information, you can also store the encrypted file in a CloudStore directory and send a link to your communication partner via the corresponding CloudStore function. You can find a description of our CloudStore service CloudStore service on our web pages.

These protective measures are recommended by the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and have already been implemented in large parts of the state administration (including the MWK).

 

 

Communication and Information Centre (kiz)

Please contact us if you have questions or problems related to the kiz services:

Office hours
Monday - Thursday
09:00 h - 12:00 h and 13:00 h - 15:30 h

Friday 09:00 h - 12:00 h

Phone
+49 (0) 731 / 50 - 30000

Telefax
+49 (0) 731 / 50 - 1230000

Order a Callback
helpdesk(at)uni-ulm.de
Support Portal (Uni internal)
[more]

Service Points are locations where you can visit us personally.

[more]

Using self-service functions of the Identity Management System (IDM): Administer permissions, subscribe to services, change passwords.

IDM Self Services
[more]

Research in the library stock: monographs, textbooks, magazines, university publications, e-books, e-journals, national licenses, and the contents of the institutional repository OPARU.

library catalogue::local

With about 400 keywords you will get direct access to our services. If something isn't listed, please contact our Internet Editorial Office.

A-Z List