Adobe Document Cloud: Troubleshooting Blocked PDF in SharePoint

Summary

This article provides a work-around for when Adobe Document Cloud blocks opening or downloading a PDF file from SharePoint.  For all members of USNH.

 

Environment

 Adobe Document Cloud being used in the USNH Microsoft365 tenant.

 

Issue

Users who receive a SharePoint sharing link that points to an Adobe PDF with "block download" enabled cannot open the file by clicking on the link they are given

The recipient may not know that "block download" was enabled for that Adobe PDF document, but if the link does not work then this work-around may allow them to view the PDF file in their web browser.

 

Workaround

Instructions

Step 1 - In SharePoint online, navigate to the PDF that you are trying to open.

Step 2 - Click on the three dots to the right of the file when hovering over it.

File list with three dots marked in a box.

 

Step 3 -  Click on “Preview” near the top of the three-dot menu that opens.

Three-dot menu with "Preview" option marked in a box.

 

Result

The PDF file will open in a new browser tab.  There will be no option to download the file.

 

Need additional help?

For assistance concerning site creation, content sharing, file synchronization, or other common SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams, or Office app activities, we recommend our Microsoft 365 Learning sites:

Learn more about the great tools our Microsoft 365 Learning sites offer!

Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request.  For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.