Set or clear read-only status

In Mac OS, you can lock a file in order to make it read-only and prevent it from being accidentally deleted.

Do any of the following:

Lock a document to make it read-only

Note: If your document is shared, anyone who has Write privileges can clear the read-only status. For stronger protection, require a password to save changes.

1. Open the Finder and select the document you want to protect.

2. On the Action pop-up menu  , click Get Info.

3. On the General pane, select the Locked check box.

Clear the read-only status of a document

Note: You must be the owner of the file, or have Write privileges, in order to clear read-only status.

1. Open the Finder and select the document you no longer want to be read-only.

2. On the Action pop-up menu  , click Get Info.

3. On the General pane, clear the Locked check box.

See also

Restricting changes by using read-only status

Password protect a document