Can you restrict changes made to a rmtree?

RootsMagic
1

Hello,
I use RootsMagic 7 and I have a few people who want to view my rmtree using RootsMagic Essentials.

Is there any way I can lock the file so people can view all the info I have put in, but not add their info or make changes?

2

No. Once they have the data, it’s their disgression as to what they might do with the database file that you would be sharing. Nothing prevents them from going beyond RootsMagic Essentials to use some other program capable of directly importing the RM database file or their own licensed RM copy or just manually cross-typing/copy&paste for adding to their research/trees.

3

RM ver 7 would not allow Read Only databases.

Later versions can deal with it.

Any file that can be read, can be copied. So even if you specify read only permissions on an NTFS filesystem, for example, they could copy the file and change permissions.

You could digitally sign the file. That way, if changes were made, the signature would become invalid.

4

If they do make changes it will only affect the version of the file that you have provided to them. It cannot affect your file unless you choose to upload their amended file to your system. The 2 files are not connected to each other and will remain separate unless physically joined together. If you have concerns about that you can always change the name of your file (or the one you provide to them) to ensure that they are easily identified and you know which one belongs to whom.

5

A Shareable CD is about the only way to make the data viewable and not editable. Though they could copy the database off of it and use it.

6

Create a RM website with what you want them to see. Send them the link and they will only be able to Read and not make changes.

Publish>MyRootsMagic

That is no guarantee that they won’t copy your info, make changes and then upload to the cloud.

7

Yes, I thought this was the case.

I actually don’t mind changes, but they need to be vetted and added to my version, then I rerelease that version to the various people who want to see it.

Looks like i’ll have to upgrade to the ugly interface. :frowning: