diff --git a/machines/gerd/services/matrix-synapse.nix b/machines/gerd/services/matrix-synapse.nix
index e1f3475..92fd58f 100644
--- a/machines/gerd/services/matrix-synapse.nix
+++ b/machines/gerd/services/matrix-synapse.nix
@@ -55,6 +55,10 @@ in {
       # be able to watch cat videos
       max_upload_size = max_upload_size;
 
+      # only authenticated media
+      # TODO: Should default to true at some point
+      enable_authenticated_media = true;
+
       # retentien policies
       media_retention = {
         local_media_lifetime = "90d";