Google Lets Drive Users Keep Files More Secure

Google Drive will make it possible to ‘lock’ files so that users who have access to a file cannot save, print or copy it. This should improve the confidentiality of data.

The setting is for sensitive files, which a Google Drive user would like to grant others access to, but prevent the data from leaking. In that case, Drive users will soon be able to enable the option to disable downloading, printing, and copying of a particular file for people with whom it has been shared. They can then only view the document and edit it if necessary.

The new functionality will be rolled out in a few days, although it could take a few weeks for Google Apps users to get the update. Google Apps administrators can opt for a slower rollout of new features. Incidentally, the functionality cannot of course prevent users from taking screenshots or copying data by hand.