What to change
The containing web page cannot control access to a separate download. If the file is meant to remain public but absent from search, ask the hosting owner about a file-specific indexing response. If the file contains material that must not be public, resolve access and exposure directly; a search preference is not protection. The acceptance evidence should concern the exact file address.
A worked example
Illustrative example
Illustrative test: Use a harmless sample PDF to check the header without exposing a real private document.
How to check the result
The direct file response matches the approved availability and indexing decision.
A mistake to avoid
Hiding a link does not make the linked file private.
Your action checklist
Use these checks to prepare a discussion with your team or supplier. Tick a check when you have recorded the decision or evidence, rather than when a feature has simply been promised.
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Further reading
These primary sources provide additional context for the project decisions above.
Related decisions
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