Microsoft is preparing to roll out a new security feature for OneDrive that will prevent users from taking screenshots of protected PDF documents, adding another layer of protection for sensitive business files.
The feature, which is expected to become generally available by the end of August 2026, will initially be limited to organizations using Microsoft Edge and Microsoft 365 security policies.
According to an update published through the Microsoft 365 admin portal and first reported by Windows Latest, the feature is designed to protect PDF files labeled as sensitive through Microsoft Purview Information Protection (MIP).
When enabled, users viewing protected PDFs through OneDrive or SharePoint’s web-based PDF viewer in Microsoft Edge will be unable to capture screenshots of those documents. Microsoft has not disclosed the technical implementation, but the protection is expected to either block Windows from taking screenshots or display a blank image when a capture is attempted.
The feature is activated through the “Do Not Allow Screen Capture in OneDrive and SharePoint” policy. Organizations that already use this policy with protected documents will automatically receive the new capability once it becomes available.
Microsoft says the update closes a previously known security gap where browser-based PDF viewing did not fully enforce Microsoft Purview’s screen capture restrictions. The enhancement brings the web experience closer to the protections already available in desktop applications.
The protection extends beyond screenshots. Organizations can also prevent users from downloading protected PDF files. If both restrictions are enabled, users will neither be able to save the document locally nor capture its contents through screenshots while viewing it in Microsoft Edge.
These controls are intended to help businesses safeguard confidential information, particularly when sensitive documents are shared with external partners, contractors or remote employees.
At launch, the feature will be exclusive to Microsoft Edge. Although the browser is built on Chromium, Microsoft said it cannot yet guarantee consistent enforcement of screenshot protection across other web browsers.
The company has indicated that support for additional browsers and mobile applications is planned for the future, but those capabilities remain under development. The initial rollout is focused on providing a reliable experience for enterprise customers before expanding compatibility.
The feature will primarily benefit organizations that rely on Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels to manage confidential information. By preventing both downloads and screen captures, Microsoft aims to reduce the risk of sensitive data being copied or shared without authorization.
While the first release is targeted at business and enterprise customers, Microsoft has previously expanded several OneDrive security features to consumer accounts after their enterprise rollout. The company has not announced similar plans for personal OneDrive users, but broader availability could be considered in the future.
If Microsoft maintains its current schedule, the protected PDF screenshot restriction will begin rolling out to eligible organizations by the end of August 2026.