Dear users,

Microsoft is introducing a privacy-enhancing change in Microsoft Teams that affects how photos are shared in chats and channels. This update helps prevent unintended sharing of location and device details embedded in images.

What is changing

Microsoft Teams will automatically remove hidden image metadata, also known as EXIF data, from pictures shared in chats and channels. This includes details such as GPS location, camera model, and device information.
The visible image itself is not altered. Only the hidden metadata is removed.

Who is affected

• • Anyone sharing images in Microsoft Teams chats or channels.

  • This is particularly relevant for teaching and learning activities that use photos, field work, clinical or placement contexts, and anyone concerned about location privacy.

Action required

• • No action is required for most users.

  • If you need to preserve EXIF metadata for legitimate academic or research purposes, share the image using a OneDrive link or another approved file-sharing method instead of pasting or attaching the image directly in Teams.

Timeline

• • General availability. Rollout begins in mid-February 2026 and completes by early March 2026.

  • Timelines are provided by Microsoft and may change.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please submit a ticket to the Enterprise Service Centre at (https://uoft.me/m365help).

Kind regards,

Enterprise Applications & Solutions Integration (EASI)
Information Technology Services, University of Toronto