How to apply DRM that disables print to file, virtual printers, or PDF converters

How to Apply DRM That Disables Print to File, Virtual Printers, or PDF Converters

Meta Description

Stop leaks before they happenhere’s how I used DRM to block PDF converters, virtual printers, and save-to-file tricks.


The Hidden Hole in Your PDF Security Strategy

A few months back, I thought I had all my digital documents locked down. Passwords? . Limited sharing? . But then one morning, I got an email from a partnerhe’d received a confidential PDF I only shared with someone else. Turns out, they printed it using a virtual printer and re-saved it as an unsecured file.

How to apply DRM that disables print to file, virtual printers, or PDF converters

That was the moment I realised: traditional PDF protection isn’t enough.

If you’ve ever dealt with sensitive legal contracts, internal reports, training manuals, or IP-heavy documentation, you know exactly what I mean. Even with restricted editing and passwords, people can still convert PDFs into unsecured versions using tools like “Print to PDF” or virtual printers like Microsoft Print to PDF.

So I went on a huntand found VeryPDF DRM Protector. And it completely changed how I lock down files.


Why VeryPDF DRM Protector Was a Game-Changer

I stumbled across VeryPDF DRM Protector while browsing options for better PDF document protectionI wasn’t looking for another password tool. I wanted bulletproof digital rights management that would:

  • Block all virtual printing and PDF conversion tools

  • Stop screenshots

  • Let me expire files remotely

  • Work without forcing end users to install clunky software

This tool checked every box.

Who Needs This?

If your job involves handling confidential content that shouldn’t leak, this is for you. I’m talking:

  • Lawyers dealing with NDAs or case files

  • HR teams sharing internal policies or salary docs

  • Content creators distributing eBooks or paid courses

  • Consultants sending out project plans or reports

  • Enterprises with SOPs, IPs, or audit data

If it’s a PDF that shouldn’t be duplicated or re-saved through backdoorsyou need DRM.


Key Features That Actually Stopped My PDFs from Being “Printed” Out of My Control

1. Disabling Virtual Printers and Print-to-File Tools

Most PDF protection tools let you think you’re secureuntil someone clicks “Print” > “Save as PDF”. Not here.

With VeryPDF, I applied a DRM rule that blocks printing to any PDF printer, virtual printer, or image printer. It even blocked the classic Microsoft Print to PDF.

“I tested this on multiple machines using various virtual printersevery attempt was blocked.”

You can completely disable printing, or allow only physical printsno file saves, period.


2. Locking Access to Specific Devices

I often send files to clients, but I don’t want them forwarding them around. So I lock each document to:

  • A specific computer or mobile device

  • Or even a USB stick (perfect for clients on the go)

That means if they try to open the PDF elsewhereit’s a no-go. Plus, there’s a Web Viewer option for browser access with no installs.


3. Expiry, Revocation, and View/Print Limits

There’s no point securing a PDF if someone can just keep it forever. Here’s how I control the life of a file:

  • Auto-expiry by date or after X views or prints

  • Revoke access remotely (even after it’s downloaded)

  • Set offline access limits or force Internet-only viewing

This feature saved me big time during a client disputewhen the deal fell through, I just revoked access. No awkward explanations.


How to Apply DRM That Disables Print to File: My Quick Guide

Here’s how I set up DRM protection using VeryPDF:

  1. Upload the PDF to the DRM Protector Web App

  2. Choose settings:

    • Disable printing to file

    • Block screenshots

    • Lock to device or USB

    • Set expiry rules

  3. Generate a protected file or link

  4. Distribute safely knowing it’s bulletproof

Total setup time? Under 10 minutes.


FAQs on Disabling Print to File and Virtual Printers with DRM

How do I stop users from printing PDFs to a file or saving as a new PDF?

With VeryPDF DRM, you can disable print to file, PDF printers, and virtual printers. Only authorised physical printing (if any) is allowed.


Can I let people view a PDF but not save or share it?

Yes. You can allow view-only access, block downloads, restrict printing, and even lock viewing to specific devices.


What happens if a user tries to open a protected PDF on another device?

They’ll get an error. If the PDF is locked to a specific device, it won’t open elsewherethis stops unauthorised sharing.


Does this work without forcing users to install apps?

Yes. VeryPDF offers a Web Viewer, which lets users open protected documents in a browserno installs required.


Can I revoke access after sharing the document?

Absolutely. You can revoke or expire access anytime, whether it’s after 7 days, 3 prints, or if a client relationship changes.


Final Thoughts: This DRM Software Sealed My PDFs for Good

VeryPDF DRM Protector solved a real pain in my business. It’s not just about protectionit’s about peace of mind. Now I know that once I send a PDF, I control:

  • Where it opens

  • Who sees it

  • Whether it can be printed, shared, or screen-grabbed

I’d highly recommend this to anyone who deals with large volumes of sensitive PDFsespecially if you’re tired of seeing your docs leak through digital loopholes.

Start your free trial now and boost your document security:

https://drm.verypdf.com/


Tags:
#PDFDRM #DisablePrintToFile #VirtualPrinterProtection #SecurePDFs #DRMSoftware #VeryPDFDRM