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Question

"You are not allowed to copy this file" but I own the file?

  • June 26, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 439 views

Memphis MacPherson

Hello! 

I have a file where I keep all my CVs, I’m trying to copy an A4 frame to make a new version, but I keep getting the alert "You are not allowed to copy this file". I gave figma a break for about a week, but the same issue is still persisting. It’s my own file, so I’m not sure why it would suddenly lock me out like this. Any help would be appreciated! 

Update: it only does this on the web based browser version. The computer app is completely fine. The web based version also won’t let me export anything. 

2 replies

Jaycee Lewis
Figmate

Hey ​@Memphis MacPherson 👋 Thanks for the post. Let's try to narrow it down.

The single most helpful thing would be a screenshot taken in the browser where the error happens: open the file, click Share in the top right, and expand the Advanced section so the full panel is visible. That one view tells us a lot about what the file thinks your permissions are.

A couple of things worth checking while you're there:

  • First, your browser's clipboard permission for figma.com. A blocked or "ask first" clipboard setting can break copy on the web version while leaving the desktop app untouched, which lines up with what you're seeing. In your browser settings, search "clipboard" and make sure figma.com is allowed (Let me know what browser is your main browser and I’ll look for a help doc)
  • Second, does the same thing happen in an incognito/private window? If it works there, it points to a browser extension or a stale session rather than the file itself
  • And just to confirm — is the account email shown in the web version the same one you're signed into on the desktop app?

There's also a file-level setting that can restrict copying, sharing, and exporting, it normally only affects people with view access rather than the owner: https://help.figma.com/hc/en-us/articles/360040045574-Restrict-copying-and-sharing-on-files Can’t hurt to take a quick look.

Once I can see that Share screenshot and hear how the incognito test goes, I should be able to point you in the right direction. Talk soon! — Jaycee


Gregoire2
  • New Member
  • July 13, 2026

Hello,

 

I just had the same issue. Was off for vacations, and I came back I couldn’t copy elements.

 

I had to logout/login again. Then Google login was asking me for permissions, I guess that was the problem.

 

Just do this and you should be good to go.