Dear KAUST Community,
This is a reminder that, as part of KAUST’s efforts to strengthen our digital collaboration environment and comply with Information Security and Data Privacy policies, new controls on third-party app add-ins/plugins and AI bots will take effect in four days.
These measures, beginning with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem (including Outlook, Teams, Power Automate, etc.), are designed to protect institutional data, reduce security risks, and ensure only safe, KAUST-approved tools are used.
What’s Changing
Starting Thursday, October 23, 2025:
- Only KAUST IT-managed/supported third-party app add-ins/plugins will remain enabled in Microsoft 365. (These include apps listed in the IT Software Catalog, IT Service Catalog, or on Software Center on Windows and Self-Service on Mac.)
- High-risk or non-approved apps (e.g., Read.ai, Whiteboard.ai) will be blocked from use.
- All native Microsoft apps (Power BI, Planner, SharePoint, Lists, OneNote, etc.) will remain available.
What you need to do now
1. Review your current apps:
In Office.com, go to Apps → Manage your apps.
Check if the third-party app plugins that you use are on the permitted list.
2. Plan ahead:
If you find that you are using apps that are not permitted, make the necessary arrangements to find alternative solutions that are managed/supported by IT, or plan ahead to discontinue using these apps before October 23, as they will not be available after that date.
· Request an App Review:
If your work heavily relies on an a third-party app that is not in the permitted list, please complete this App Review Form. This will help us understand your needs in order to provide you with more secure alternatives, or to further review your app for compliance and necessity.
Learn more about third-party app security
Curious how free or third-party apps can put your data at risk?
Check out these quick reads to learn how to spot risky apps and keep your information secure:
- Third-Party Apps in Microsoft 365: How to Remove Them and Protect Your Data
- The App May Be Free, But Your Data Is Not: What You Should Know Before You Sign Up
- Policy reference: Acceptable Use Policy
Next Steps:
More details will be shared soon to guide you through the next phase of this rollout.
Thank you for staying proactive and helping us keep KAUST’s digital environment secure.
KAUST IT
it.kaust.edu.sa