Why do some websites not allow screenshots?

Asked by: Miss Ada Lockman DVM  |  Last update: February 4, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (4 votes)

Websites block screenshots primarily for security, copyright protection (DRM), and to prevent unauthorized sharing of sensitive or premium content, like banking details, online exams, or streaming video (Netflix, Udemy). They use methods like disabling keyboard shortcuts, making the screen black, or exploiting browser features (like full-screen mode) to prevent capturing sensitive information or protected media.

How to take a screenshot when the website doesn't allow?

How to Solve "Can't Take Screenshot Due to Security Policy"

  1. Open Chrome on your Android device.
  2. Go to chrome://flags to open the Chrome Flags page.
  3. Search for "Screenshot" to filter the flags to what you want.
  4. Click on the drop-down menu and select "Enabled."
  5. Then, tap on "Relaunch" to apply the changes.

How do I screenshot a protected site?

Users can navigate to their device's security or privacy settings and toggle options that allow screenshots. For instance, on some Android devices, there might be a setting under security options to enable or disable screenshots.

Can a website prevent screenshots?

You cannot prevent screenshots for web content

Users can use a screen capture app to bypass the security and/or enable right-click by editing JavaScript in the browser.

Why does Chrome not allow screenshots?

Chrome disables screenshots and screen recording in Incognito mode so that the other apps on your phone can't spy on you by taking screenshots of Incognito windows without your knowledge.

How to Take Screenshot on Restricted App | Cannot Capture Screenshot

31 related questions found

Can my ISP see my Incognito activity?

Incognito or private mode will keep your local browsing private, but it won't stop your ISP, school, or employer from seeing where you've been online. In fact, your ISP has access to all your browsing activity pretty much no matter what you do. You can, however, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service.

How do I get Google to allow screenshots?

If the Google Assistant won't take screenshots, try these steps to fix the issue:

  1. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Settings app .
  2. Tap Apps. Default apps. Digital assistant app.
  3. Turn on Use screenshot and Use text from screen.

Does OnlyFans know if you screenshot?

No, OnlyFans does not directly notify creators when you take a screenshot of their content, unlike Snapchat. While the platform doesn't alert creators to screenshots, taking them violates the terms of service, and sharing that content can lead to account bans and legal action, as creators retain copyright over their work. 

Why are screenshots not allowed?

Why Apps Prevent You From Taking Screenshots. An error message like this usually means that the app or your device has sensitive information that shouldn't be shared, which protects you from potentially leaking anything, like your bank account information or copyrighted material.

Is it legal to screenshot websites?

Screenshots. Posting unaltered screenshots of software, websites, computer/video games, etc., is generally considered fair use with proper attribution.

Can a site tell if you screenshot?

Most websites cannot detect screenshots or screen recording. Exceptions: streaming services, corporate portals, and banking sites. Browsers like Chrome & Safari don't track screenshots by default.

How to get screenshots of a website?

How to take a full page screenshot on Chrome

  1. With the web page open, press command + option + I (on Mac) or Ctrl + Shift + I (on Windows) to open Developer Tools. ...
  2. Next, press command + shift + P (on Mac) or Ctrl + Shift + P (on Windows). ...
  3. In the search bar, immediately after Run >, type "screenshot" for your command.

How do I change the settings for a screenshot?

Changing screenshot settings involves adjusting options for preview, format, and shortcuts, typically found in the device's Settings app, under sections like General > Screen Capture (iPhone/iPad) for previews/formats, or in Windows' Snipping Tool for modes (Rectangle, Window, Freeform) and Print Screen key behavior. On Android (Samsung), look in Settings > Advanced Features > Screenshots and screen recorder for format (JPG/PNG) and tools like Palm Swipe. 

What is a screenshot blocker?

A screenshot blocker is a feature or software that prevents others from taking screenshots of your computer screen without your consent. This can be useful for increasing privacy and security, especially in cases where sensitive information is being displayed on the screen.

What is the purpose of Flag Secure?

FLAG_SECURE is a window level flag that when set indicates to treat the content of the window as secure, preventing it from appearing in screenshots or from being viewed on non-secure displays, while REQUIRE_SECURE_ENV signals to other apps that your app must run in a secure environment.

Why are screenshots sometimes restricted?

Certain apps do not allow you screenshots such as Netflix and Facebook and others banking apps too. These apps have policies that forbid you from screenshot being captured due to extra security features. Several apps have an android built-in mechanism system that blocks screenshots.

Is it illegal to screen shot?

Depends on the use case

Misusing screenshots, especially for commercial use, defamation, or copyright infringement, can result in takedown requests, account suspensions, DMCA notices, or even lawsuits.

Can I sue someone for screenshotting my OnlyFans?

Yes, you can potentially sue someone for screenshotting and sharing your OnlyFans content due to copyright infringement and invasion of privacy, as OnlyFans' terms forbid unauthorized reproduction and distribution, allowing for legal action like copyright claims (DMCA), cease & desist letters, and lawsuits for damages, though it's crucial to document everything and consult a lawyer for specific advice. 

Does fansly notify screenshots?

No, Fansly does not send direct screenshot notifications to creators when a user takes one, but it does use watermarking with your username on content and has some security measures that can help identify leaksremove.tech. While you won't get an alert like on Snapchat, Fansly's built-in watermarks (your username on images/videos) make stolen content traceable, and creators can submit DMCA takedowns if their work is leaked, remove.tech. 

How do I stop people from screenshotting on OnlyFans?

Limit Screenshots: Use screenshot-detection software or apps that alert you when someone takes a screenshot of your content. This helps you identify potential pirates and take action.

Why does my Chrome not allow screenshots?

Taking screenshots in Incognito mode in Chrome on Android is generally disabled by default to protect privacy. However, you can change this setting by adjusting Chrome's flags. Here's how you can enable screenshots in Incognito mode: Open Chrome on your Android device.

How do I enable a screenshot?

To enable screenshots, use the universal Power + Volume Down buttons on most phones, or add a shortcut to your Quick Settings panel for one-tap access on Android; for Windows, use the Snipping Tool (Win + Shift + S), and for Apple devices, use Side/Home button + Volume Up (iPhone) or Control Center (Mac), ensuring settings like "Palm Swipe" (Samsung) or "Back Tap" (iPhone) are turned on for gestures.