You gave someone access to a download…
Next day, it’s posted in a forum for thousands.
Here’s how to stop unauthorized sharing and keep your files private.
✅ 1. Use tokenized download links
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Generate download links with:
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IP restriction
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Time limit
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One-time use tokens
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✅ Makes links useless once shared elsewhere.
✅ 2. Require account login before downloading
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Tie downloads to user accounts
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Track:
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Who downloaded
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When
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From where
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✅ Easy with CMS tools or membership plugins.
✅ 3. Track downloads and referrer headers
Use server logs or download managers to log:
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Referring page
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User agent
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Number of attempts
✅ Spot unusual patterns or abuse.
✅ 4. Watermark ZIP files or software builds
Include:
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User name
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Email
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License key inside README or filenames
✅ Deters redistribution (especially for paid software).
✅ 5. Disable right-click or direct file access (frontend)
Use:
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JavaScript + .htaccess rules
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CMS settings to hide direct file paths
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Serve files via PHP instead of raw URLs
Key points to remember
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Token links = one user per download
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Login + IP tracking = accountability
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Watermarks = redistribution deterrent
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Monitor access and referrer logs