How to Block Another User from Sharing Files with You in Google Drive

Because anyone with a Google Account can easily type an email address into the “Share” box, your Google Drive can sometimes become cluttered with documents you never asked for. In worst-case scenarios, malicious actors might use the sharing feature to send spam, phishing links, or inappropriate content directly into your “Shared with me” folder. Since you cannot control what other people do, your only defence is to completely block the offending user.

When you block someone in Google Drive, three critical things happen instantly: they can no longer share new files with you, any files they previously shared with you are immediately hidden from your view, and you will no longer be able to share your own files with them. This creates a complete digital barrier between your accounts.

Blocking a User from the “Shared with me” Tab

The easiest way to block a user is directly from the unwanted file they just sent you.

1. Open your web browser and navigate to drive.google.com.
2. Look at the navigation sidebar on the left side of the screen and click on the Shared with me tab.
3. Locate the specific file or folder that was sent to you by the spammer or unwanted contact.
4. Right-click on the offending file (do not double-click to open it, as it may contain malicious links).
5. In the long context menu that appears, look for the option labelled Block [User’s Email Address]. It usually features a small circle with a line through it.
6. Click the Block option.
7. A popup window will appear asking you to confirm your decision and reminding you of the consequences. Click the blue Block button to finalise the action.

How to Unblock a User Later

If you accidentally blocked a legitimate colleague, or if a conflict resolves itself and you need to collaborate with that person again, you can reverse the block at any time through your Google Account settings.

1. Open Google Drive and click on your Profile picture in the top-right corner of the screen.
2. Click the button labelled Manage your Google Account.
3. A new browser tab will open. On the left-hand navigation sidebar, click on People & sharing.
4. Scroll down the page until you find the “Contacts” section. Click on the box labelled Blocked.
5. You will see a list of every email address you have ever blocked across all Google services. Scroll through the list to find the person you wish to unblock.
6. Click the “X” icon directly to the right of their email address. The block will be instantly lifted, and they will immediately regain the ability to share files with you.