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Managing Files

Uploading Files And Avoiding PII

Use the upload workflow safely, understand file constraints, and avoid publishing personally identifiable information.
Data publishers6 min read

Overview

File upload is one of the highest-risk workflows in the platform because it can expose sensitive or badly formatted data quickly.

The portal includes guardrails, but publishers still need to review content before upload.

Use Supported File Types

The upload field is intentionally filtered to common supported formats such as CSV, JSON, PDF, and Excel files.

CSV and JSON receive automated PII scanning. Other formats may still require manual review even if they upload successfully.

PII warning banner

Upload-form banner linking to the data policy and warning about personal data risks.

Respond To Upload Warnings

If the platform detects possible personal data in a CSV or JSON file, it interrupts the upload and requires the uploader to review the findings first.

The safest action is to cancel, clean the file, and upload again.

Watch out: Do not treat a successful upload as proof that a file is free of personal data. Unsupported file types are not deeply scanned.

PII detection modal

PII warning modal with findings, acknowledgement, and upload decision actions.

Safe upload walkthrough

Walkthrough of file preparation, validation, and responding to a PII warning.

File Preparation Checklist

Basic file hygiene prevents most upload problems and reduces the chance of publishing data that others cannot interpret.

Steps

  1. 01Check for names, phone numbers, email addresses, IDs, and exact addresses before upload.
  2. 02Use descriptive file names and resource names.
  3. 03Remove hidden sheets or stale tabs from Excel files.
  4. 04Confirm the file opens correctly before uploading it.