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blumley

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How to "copy protect" an Excel file

I have written an Excel spreadheet that I wish to sell on eBay.  However, I'd like to have some way of copy-protecting the file to avoid rampant sharing.  I know that there's no way I'll ever be able to REALLY copy-protect the file - they can always just email it to someone.  However, I'd like suggestions on anything you think I could do to solve this problem.  ANY suggestions are much appreciated!

Thanks in advance!
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Dave
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Unfortunately it's wide open, especially given its a worksheet and not an excel add-in. All you can really do is make it harder for the average user to copy.

Can you make it an addin ?

The best protection method I've seen is to write code to the registry and then disable the spreadsheet if a correct serial code is not entered after a set time. It does require some decent coding to do this.


Cheers

Dave
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gasmole

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blumley

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I guess that's about as good as it gets then...  Thanks, folks.
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ASKER

Thanks, gasmole.
Normally blumley you would leave a question like this open for a longer period to gather as much advice and ideas as possible.

BTW, Protecting the contents will provive some degree of protection against people from altering what's inside the spreadsheet but it will do nothing to stop unauthorised use

Cheers

Dave
Hi blumley
Thanks for the points.
You might have gotten a better idea if you left the question open for a longer period.
gasmole
All excel built in security and protection can be simply bypassed using third party tools (Like Excel password Recovery and ... )

You must use third party security providers like XCell Compiler or Office Security OwnerGuard.
this thread was closed 6 years ago ......