color combinations so that text will not print

[Jeff Hop]

I realize that it is not possible to prevent someone from downloading or
printing a web page, but there are some methods to make it a hassle.

I use on-line tests that I would prefer to not be downloaded - but we all
know many ways to snag it. So I just want to make it difficult for the
novice in the hope of discouraging them.

I presently use javascript to

1- disable the right click
2 - open in a toolbar-less window
3 - cache restrictions
4 - diable "select text" with the mouse

What I would like to know now, is there a possible color combination that
would make printing the page result in the words not showing up? Ctrl-P will
start the process and there's no easy way to disable keyboard functions.

I tried yellow, white, and red's on a black background, but the words came
out in hues of blue for yellow and white and red for red on my color
printer.

I don't want to make the reading of the test to be uncomfortable as some of
these colors on black make for poor readablility, but nonetheless, do any of
you know of a useful color combinations so that text will not print?

I use FP 2003 with WinXP.

 

[Doctor Bombay]

Jeez man if you are trying to hide something that badly, do you really think
you should have it on the internet?

 

[Timothy Casey]

Don't bother.

All they have to do is go to the temporary internet folder. Every file that
makes the web pages you are browsing is there. It is a cinch to retrieve the
content using Windows Explorer. By allowing the user to browse your website,
you are uploading content to their computer. If it is taking up space on
their computer, surely they have the right to access the material as
required.

You cannot prevent them from printing. Even pdf files encrypted to 128 bit
to prevent tampering can be "print-screened" to the clipboard (the button
next to the "Scroll Lock" button on the keyboard) on any machine with a half
decent graphics setup. Short of hacking the user's computer (a gross
violation of user rights), the copying of content for personal use cannot be
stopped.

If you do not want it copied, put a digital signature into the art or show
only a thumbnail, while charging for the download of the full-sized picture.

If I get enough encouragement, I'll write a cheap program that will bury
your name and identity details in an image and perhaps html text so that you
can retrieve it at any time and thus identify any image or substantial
portion of text (More than fifty words) that is copied from your work...

=~=
Timothy Casey
South Australia
(e-mail address removed)

Formerly:
(e-mail address removed)

Phenomenal Speed Comprehension at:
www.fieldcraft.biz

 

[Eric Ericson]

Jeff,

You will never be able to disable screen caps that can be printed as
bitmaps. It sounds like a loosing battle.

 

[McCabe's Minuteman]

Plus, many search engine bots look for invisible type and will reject your
site if found. That's because many people SPAM their own pages with search
keywords that are hidden or hard to see.