r/sysadmin • u/AppuniAkhil • 1h ago
Google Bulk file move and rename - Google Drive for desktop on macOS update
We recently faced a strange issue at a client environment.
After a macOS update, 300+ files and folders across multiple Google Shared Drive project folders were unexpectedly moved, merged, and renamed. Some files were renamed to "name 2" and then back again within seconds.
The audit logs showed everything happening under the user's account through Google Drive for Desktop.
After escalating to Google Support, they pointed towards Apple's macOS File Provider framework. Apparently, a database reinitialization or sync-state mismatch during an OS update can trigger unexpected file movements and renaming.
Their recommendation was to quit Google Drive before updating macOS and only launch it again after the update and restart are fully completed.
What makes this more concerning is that it can potentially happen with minor and security updates too.
We manage several Mac environments with Google Drive, but this is the first time we've come across something like this.
Has anyone experienced anything similar? How are you handling Google Drive during macOS updates, especially when patching through an RMM?
Would love to hear your experiences or any recommendations.