Issue Selling a Digital Product with Conditional Access { RBT Supervision Tracker}

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to launch a Shopify store to sell digital products for behavior analysts—starting with an RBT Supervision Tracker designed for BCBAs and RBTs.

Before I dive in, I wanted to ask:

  • What’s the best way to securely deliver digital files?
  • How can I restrict access (e.g., limit downloads, set expiration)?
  • Is there a way to prevent customers from sharing the download link?

I’ve looked into the built-in Shopify digital downloads app and tools like SendOwl, but I’m unsure which is best for protecting professional tools like this.

You can check out the product I plan to sell here: :backhand_index_pointing_right: freerbtpracticeexam

I’d love to hear what has worked for others selling digital resources like templates, workbooks, or trackers.

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Jirbani]

Hi @Jirbani :waving_hand: the forums are best for singular narrow scoped questions and or show your work before asking others to do your research work for you.

Your asking a series of questions for a whole process implementation with each question itself being complex.

So ultimately answers becomes vague, and the solution is money.

There is no “best” framing a question like that is a trap leaving out specific details that will trip you up.

Shopify digital downloads is a beginners app with basic features.

Anything other than that your gonna have to burn the time doing the per-feature research to build it if your doing it alone.

If you’ve only looked at two apps you haven’t burnt enough time on this.

Hi @Jirbani

My name is Léo and I built the highest-rated digital downloads app on the Shopify App Store (900+ reviews and counting!). A few years ago, I was selling digital products myself (ebooks and templates mostly) and couldn’t find an app that was secure and simple to use, so I made one :blush:

You asked some great questions, so here’s a breakdown based on what we offer (and what you’ll probably want as a behavior analyst selling premium tools):

Best way to deliver digital files securely:
Each customer gets a unique, time-limited download link tied specifically to their order. Files are hosted securely and not directly accessible through Shopify.

Restrict access (downloads/expiration):
You can set a limit on number of downloads (3 downloads max for instance), or an expiration time (e.g., link valid for 7 days). You can also resend links manually if needed.


As for tools, Shopify’s default app is pretty basic (great if you’re just starting), and SendOwl is another excellent and robust option (especially for advanced workflows), though it can get a bit pricey depending on your volume.

If you’re curious, here’s our app:

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Big Digital Downloads

We’ve got a generous free plan (500MB), a $12.49/month plan with up to 10GB storage, 24/7 support, and extra benefits for first-time digital sellers.

Would love to help you get set up, feel free to reach out!

Hey!

Our app Alva Digital Downloads ( Alva Digital Downloads - Alva Digital Downloads: Secure Digital Downloads for Shopify | Shopify App Store ) provides all those features and much more (advanced fraud protection, download limitations etc) and we have a free plan too!