Google has announced that it will begin blocking JavaScript attachments (.js) in Gmail from 13 February 2017 in an attempt to reduce malicious attacks.
Take note that .js files are not the only files that have been blocked as Gmail already bans use of certain file attachments like .exe, .msc, and .bat. Google has said that restricting these certain file attachments are due to security reasons.
This means that if you try to send .js file attachments (even in compressed form) from February 13, Gmail will block the attachment and will show an in-product warning explaining as to why that has been done.
The warning message will read:
“There are a number of reasons why you may see the ‘This message was blocked because its content presents a potential security issue’ error in Gmail. Gmail blocks messages that may spread viruses like messages that include executables files or certain links.”
How do I send my .js files now?
There are other ways to share your .js attachment files such as Google Drive, Google Cloud Storage, or other storage solutions to share or send files.
Why are these attachments/archives blocked?
These attachments may be documents with malicious macros or include file content that is password protected.
Why is the .js attachment suddenly being blocked?
Could be many reasons to be honest. However, one of the possible reasons that Google may have opted to block these .js attachment files may be due to increasing popularity of JavaScripts as form of malware. Downloadable .js files can help attackers steal data from the system.
