Email: How to Set the Do Not Forward Feature

Summary

The “Do Not Forward” feature in Outlook prevents recipients from forwarding, printing or copying the content of your email. This adds an extra layer of security for messages containing sensitive information by ensuring that only the original sender retains full permissions over the message and any replies and reduces the risk of unauthorized sharing.

Body


Before You Begin:

  • You need access to Outlook or Office 365.
  • Make sure you are signed in with your UofL email account.

 


Instructions:

  1. Open a new message in Outlook.
  2. Click the Options tab at the top of the message window.
  3. In the Options bar, click the Encrypt drop-down arrow.
  4. If prompted, select the appropriate mailbox from the dropdown.
  5. Choose Do Not Forward from the menu.
  6. Once selected, the email will be protected and forwarding will be disabled for recipients.

How to Tell an Email is Marked “Do Not Forward”:

  • Preview Message: A notification will appear stating the sender has sent a protected message.

  • Reading Pane: A banner at the top will display the following message:  "Do Not Forward – Recipients can read this message, but cannot forward, print, or copy content. The conversation starter has full permission to their message and all replies."


Additional Notes

  • This feature is part of Microsoft’s Information Rights Management (IRM) capabilities.
  • It is ideal for internal communications, confidential updates, and any scenario where message control is critical.

 

 

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Details

Article ID: 20189
Created
Fri 10/10/25 4:47 PM
Modified
Mon 7/20/26 11:43 AM