Upload error due security concerns, what does this mean?

[Ajb1]

Trying to upload pdf files from mobile to Dropbox using 'share' option on phone as usual, got errors saying unable to upload files due to security concerns. No problem uploading same files using web interface, but much less convenient. What securuty concerns, and how do I stop the errors?

[Megan]

Hi @Ajb1, let's jump right into this! 

As a first step, can you clarify the OS you're using, along with the Dropbox mobile app version too? 

If you try to open the Dropbox app, and click the + icon in order to upload these files, do you get any errors? Feel free to send me a few screenshots of the error you mentioned. 

Keep me posted!

[Ajb1]

Thanks for the prompt reply Megan.
Samsung Galaxy A40
Android 11
Dropbox app version 348.2.4
Using the +icon worked ok.

Not sure how to add screenshots of problem here. First message was 'some of your files failed to upload. Review your files and try again', then a box saying 'operation not allowed'. Pressed the button saying 'review files', got a screen headed Apps, including the message 'Unable to upload file due to security concerns'. Also had a notification saying 'Upload failed [filename]' and 'tap for details'. Tapped, got message 'Upload failed. We dont have permission to read [filename].
Hope this helps, can add screenshots if you let me know how!
Ajb1

[Megan]

Hi @Ajb1, you should be able to click the camera-like icon, in order to attach your files here. 

Can you give it a go? 

[Rich]

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@Ajb1 wrote:
Not sure how to add screenshots of problem here.

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[Ajb1]

Megan and Rich,
Thank you both, but unfortunately all I have is a blank box to type into, no icons of any sort! Never mind, I can survive for now using the + in the Dropbox app to upload while I experiment further. Maybe a permission missing somewhere on the phone. Thanks, Ajb1

[Megan]

Hi @Ajb1, have you tried uploading the screenshot using your mobile? 

Because this might be the case. If you wish to see the icon, you'd need to request the desktop-version of our website through your browser, or alternatively to use a computer. 

In any case, see how things are going, and if you need anything else we'll be one post away!

[Ajb1]

Good thinking - desktop version shows the icons!

Screenshots attached. 

I don't know if this might be related to a previous community post late last year about Android permissions for Dropbox only alliwing media file access, rather than all files. 

Regards, ajb1

[Walter]

Hey @Ajb1, sorry to jump in here, but have you ensured you've granted Dropbox the correct permissions through your phone's settings? 

[Ajb1]

Thought I had replied to this, but apparently not! I've looked at permissions and it shows (see screenshot) media only, not files, but no option to include files. However I have tried using 'share' on a photo, and that failed with the same problem. I think the last time I could upload via 'share' was on earlier version of Dropbox.