Helping Cross-Border File Transfer Between the USA and China
Global Operations, Local Data Requirements
The Great Firewall of China and other network restrictions can affect how organizations access international cloud services. Performance can also vary according to deployment architecture, network conditions, file sizes, and user location.
China’s cross-border data framework includes the Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL), Data Security Law, Cybersecurity Law, and regulations governing outbound data transfers. Depending on the organization, data type, volume, and transfer scenario, different requirements may apply.
Organizations transferring data between China and the United States need to consider where information is stored, what type of data is involved, who can access it, and whether a transfer is subject to additional regulatory requirements.
FileCloud supports these compliance efforts with flexible deployment options and administrative control over storage, sharing, access, retention, and audit activity. With FileCloud Server, organizations can deploy the platform on infrastructure they control and design a data residency strategy appropriate to their operational and regulatory requirements.
Secure Cross-Border Collaboration
Cross-border collaboration often involves much more than sending individual files. Manufacturers may exchange product specifications and CAD files with suppliers in China. Engineering teams may collaborate on project documentation. Global businesses may need to securely share financial records, intellectual property, contracts, or large project deliverables.
FileCloud provides a centralized platform to support file sharing with China:
- secure external file sharing
- file synchronization
- granular permissions
- workflow automation
- metadata and content classification
- audit logs
Navigate China Data Transfer Requirements
China’s requirements for outbound data transfers can vary according to the type and sensitivity of the information being transferred and the organization processing it.
FileCloud does not replace an organization’s legal or regulatory assessment. Instead, it provides technical controls that can support a cross-border data governance strategy, including access controls, data loss prevention, auditability, retention policies, and flexible deployment.
(Organizations operating in Shanghai may also need to consider the city’s evolving framework for outbound data transfers and applicable negative-list requirements.)
Secure Data as It Crosses Borders
Secure cross-border file transfer requires control over both the transmission of data and what recipients can do after gaining access.
FileCloud supports encrypted file transfer and protects files in transit and at rest. Administrators can strengthen access security with multi-factor authentication, granular permissions, password-protected shares, file locking, and other controls. DLP and DRM capabilities provide additional safeguards for sensitive information that should not be downloaded, printed, copied, or redistributed.
Simplify Collaboration with External Partners
Working with suppliers, manufacturers, contractors, and customers in another country can create fragmented workflows when files are spread across email attachments, consumer cloud services, FTP systems, and disconnected collaboration tools.
FileCloud brings file sharing, synchronization, remote access, and administrative oversight into one platform. Teams can securely access current versions of documents while IT retains centralized control over users, devices, permissions, and sharing policies.
Maintain Control Over Cross-Border Data
Cross-border collaboration should not mean giving up visibility into sensitive information.
FileCloud administrators can control who has access to files and folders, apply granular sharing permissions, monitor activity through audit logs, and use Smart DLP policies to identify or restrict sensitive content. Organizations can also apply retention, governance, and workflow policies to help manage information throughout its lifecycle.
These controls are particularly useful for organizations exchanging proprietary technology, product designs, financial information, and other high-value data between teams in the USA and China.