To share documents without allowing downloads in Docutracker: create a share link, enable Disable downloads, then test the link in an incognito window to confirm the viewer can read the document but can’t download it.
Before you start
- Have the document uploaded (PDF or presentation converted to PDF).
- Decide whether you also need password protection (access control) and/or email verification (viewer identity).
Step-by-step: share view-only (no downloads)
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Upload (or select) the document in your dashboard.
Result: The document appears in your Docutracker files list. -
Click Share to open the share-link settings.
Result: You can see link controls like password, expiration, and downloads. -
Turn on Disable downloads (view-only mode).
Why it matters: It reduces casual redistribution (forwarding the file as an attachment).
Result: The viewer no longer offers a download action for the document. -
Add optional security layers (pick what you need):
- Require password for sensitive links.
- Require email verification if you need to know who accessed it.
- Set expiration date if access should end automatically.
- Add watermark to discourage screenshots.
Result: The link enforces the extra rules you enabled.
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Test the recipient experience in an incognito/private window.
Why it matters: This confirms you actually disabled downloads before you send it.
Result: You can view the document, but there’s no clear way to download it. -
Send the link with a one-line instruction.
Result: The recipient opens it in the browser and views it without receiving a file copy.
What this does (and doesn’t) prevent
- Prevents: easy “download and forward the file” behavior.
- Doesn’t fully prevent: screenshots/screen-recording (true for any web viewer). Use watermarks to make screenshots attributable.
Troubleshooting
- Recipient says they still see a download option: confirm you enabled Disable downloads on the same link you sent (you may have multiple links for the same file).
- Recipient needs offline access: create a separate link with downloads enabled and set a short expiration.
- You need to prove who accessed it: enable email verification (downloads settings won’t identify viewers by themselves).
Quick checklist
- Disable downloads enabled
- Tested in incognito
- Password enabled (if sensitive)
- Email verification enabled (if identity matters)
- Expiration date set (if time-limited)
- Watermark enabled (if screenshots matter)