Shared link asks viewers to request access. Why does this happen?

[skepticalthinker]

Greetings.  I have a shared file set to be viewable by anyone with the link, and I've sent the link to those I want to view the file (see screenshot).  However, when they access the link, Dropbox states they "do not have access to this file" and offers the option to request access, which I must individually approve.  I have other files configured with these same settings, and those with whom I've shared those links can access them without any separate approval.  I don't know why this particular file is different.  Am I missing something?

[Jay]

Hi @skepticalthinker, thanks for bringing this to our attention.

When you shared the link to the users, did you just copy and paste it exactly as the site generated the link?

If you view the link in an incognito/private browsing window in your browser, without logging into your account, are you able to view the file normally?

This will help me to assist further!

[skepticalthinker]

Thanks for your interest @Jay.  Yes, I copied the Dropbox-generated link and emailed it to those I wished to share the file with.  After the first one or two requests to approve access, I opened a private browsing window in Firefox to test it, and it took me right to the file.  That’s why I'm confused.

[Hannah]

Hey @skepticalthinker, sorry to jump in here, but did you initially create the link through our website or through your local Dropbox folder?

[skepticalthinker]

Thanks for your interest @Hannah.  I always create links (and do all my sharing) via the Dropbox website.

[Hannah]

Thanks for clarifying, @skepticalthinker!

Does the shared link you've created contain this: "rlkey"?

[skepticalthinker]

@Hannah 

Just checked…yes it does.

Thanks.

[Hannah]

Thanks for checking, @skepticalthinker.

Would you mind asking your recipients for a screenshot of what they see, when they click on the link?

[skepticalthinker]

I’ll see what I can do, @Hannah.  I think most of them have already requested access and viewed this file, but the next time someone asks for approval, I will post here.

Many thanks again!

[Hannah]

Not a problem, @skepticalthinker!

The thread will remain open, so whenever you can, just get back to us with any updates.

Thanks again and have a great weekend!