Shared a file, and suddenly it’s on another site?
Here’s how to prevent users from copying, redistributing, or leaking your download files.
✅ 1. Watermark your downloads
Add:
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User email or ID inside the file (README.txt, PDF footer, etc.)
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Dynamic watermarking on export/download
✅ Identifies the original source if it gets leaked.
✅ 2. Use unique download links per user
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Generate one-time or time-limited links
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Include user-specific tokens (e.g.,
file.zip?uid=123abc) -
Track access by IP or ID
✅ 3. Encrypt content with key sent by email
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File is encrypted (e.g., with 7-Zip)
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Password sent only to buyer’s verified email
✅ Stops unauthorized access even if link is leaked.
✅ 4. Log every download action
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Save logs with user ID, timestamp, IP, file accessed
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Alert on unusual patterns (e.g., 10 downloads in 5 mins)
✅ 5. Include legal notice in the file
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Add
Terms.txtor watermark noting redistribution is prohibited -
Helps with takedown enforcement if reuploaded
Key points to remember
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Watermarks and tokens discourage sharing
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Encrypting + email keys = controlled access
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Always log and monitor download behavior
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Proactive = better than chasing leaks