# Confidential document sharing checklist

Check recipients, remove unnecessary information and review files and access settings before sharing confidential documents with a client.

## Confirm the need to share

- [ ] Write down why the recipient needs the documents
- [ ] Confirm the intended recipient through a known contact channel
- [ ] Check that you are authorised to share the information
- [ ] Select only the files needed for this purpose
- [ ] Remove unrelated personal or client information from the copy
- [ ] Check any handling instructions attached to the documents

## Review the actual files

- [ ] Check that each selected file is the intended version
- [ ] Review comments and tracked changes before exporting
- [ ] Inspect hidden sheets, rows and columns in spreadsheets
- [ ] Check document properties for unnecessary identifying details
- [ ] Use a proper redaction tool for information that must be removed
- [ ] Open the final exported copies to inspect what is visible

## Choose the access settings

- [ ] Choose a sharing method appropriate to the information’s sensitivity
- [ ] Check who can access the folder or link
- [ ] Remove unrelated files from the shared location
- [ ] Set an expiry date on a private sharing link, for example with [DocBunker](https://docbunker.app/en)
- [ ] Check how to revoke access before sending the link
- [ ] Check the recipient view using a non-owner session

## Send and follow up

- [ ] Recheck the address before sending the message
- [ ] Keep confidential details out of the message subject
- [ ] Tell the recipient what the files are for
- [ ] Ask the recipient not to forward a private access link
- [ ] Record the sharing date and planned access end date
- [ ] Revoke access when the agreed sharing period ends