Facebook groups allow members to share files and documents with each other. This can be a great way to distribute information and collaborate on projects within a group. However, there are some limitations and guidelines around sharing files that group members should be aware of.
What types of files can be shared?
Most common file types can be shared in Facebook groups, including:
- Documents – DOC, DOCX, PDF, PPT, etc.
- Images – JPG, PNG, GIF, etc.
- Videos – MP4, MOV, AVI, etc.
- Audio – MP3, WAV, etc.
- Compressed files – ZIP, RAR, 7Z, etc.
When you go to share a file in a group, Facebook will check the file type and size to ensure it meets their requirements. If the file is valid, it will be uploaded and attached to your post in the group.
Are there any file size limits?
Yes, Facebook does limit the maximum size of files that can be shared in groups:
- Documents – 25 MB
- Photos – 25 MB
- Videos – 512 MB
- GIFs – 25 MB
Any files larger than these sizes will be blocked from being uploaded. If you try to share an oversized file, you’ll see an error message informing you that the file could not be shared.
To share larger documents, you can split them into smaller parts that are under the 25MB limit. For videos, you may need to compress them or upload to a third-party service like YouTube and share the link instead.
Where are files stored?
Files shared in Facebook groups are not stored within the group itself. Instead, they are uploaded to the member’s personal Facebook account who shared the file.
The file will appear attached to their post in the group, but it is actually hosted and stored in their personal Facebook storage. This means the file size counts towards the member’s personal storage limit.
Other group members can view, download or interact with the file as normal. But the original uploader retains ownership and control over it.
What permissions do files have?
Group members who can view the post can also view, download and interact with the files shared in that post. The permissions are determined by the group’s privacy settings:
| Group Privacy | Who Can Access Files |
|---|---|
| Public | Anyone on or off Facebook |
| Private | Only approved group members |
| Secret | Only current group members |
So files shared in a secret group are only available to current members, while files in public groups can be accessed by anyone.
Can files be deleted?
The member who originally shared the file has full control over it. They can:
- Delete the file from their Facebook storage to remove it completely
- Delete the post in the group which contains the file
- Edit the post to remove the file attachment
Other group members cannot directly delete files shared by someone else. But group admins can delete posts containing files or remove the member who posted it.
How do members download files?
There are a couple ways for group members to download files:
- Click the download icon on the file preview to download immediately
- Click the file name to open it, then use the download or save option
- Right-click and save the full-size image for photos
- Use a third-party tool or browser extension to batch download files
The exact options may vary depending on the file type. But most types will have some kind of download function to save a copy of the file locally.
Are there restrictions on sharing certain file types?
Facebook does prohibit sharing files that violate their Terms of Service or Community Standards. This includes:
- Malicious files like viruses, malware, trojans, etc.
- Illegal or pirated software, movies, music, etc.
- Pornographic, graphic or sexually explicit material
- Dangerous files like weapons plans, bombs, etc.
- Hate speech, threats, harassment in text files
- Anything that infringes on copyright or trademark
These types of illegal, dangerous or infringing files are banned from being shared anywhere on Facebook. The platform uses automated systems and user reports to detect violations.
Sharing prohibited content can result in the file being removed, your post being deleted, or even suspension of your account if it is a serious or repeat offense.
What are best practices for sharing files?
To safely and effectively share files in Facebook groups, keep these best practices in mind:
- Compress large files to share smaller versions under the limits
- Upload videos to YouTube and share the link for oversized videos
- Only share files you have permission or rights to distribute
- Credit the original source or creator of any files shared
- Use discretion sharing sensitive info like medical records or financial data
- Delete obsolete, old or redundant files posted to keep things organized
- Make sure files are clearly named and labeled when posting
- Follow any specific rules about file sharing outlined in that particular group
Conclusion
Sharing files in Facebook groups allows members to easily distribute documents, media, and other resources within the group. But there are limits on size and type that must be followed. While files appear visible within the group itself, they remain controlled by and stored in the account of the member who shared it originally. Following best practices helps keep file sharing easy and effective for all group members.