How to Copy Protected Text by Disabling JavaScript
Have you ever tried to copy text from a website, only to find that right-clicking and text selection are completely blocked?
It’s incredibly frustrating when websites prevent you from copying content or saving images.
The good news?
These restrictions are implemented using JavaScript, which means you can easily bypass them by disabling JavaScript in your browser.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to disable JavaScript in Chrome to copy protected text and download images from any website.
Step 1: Open Developer Tools
Click the three-dot menu button in the top-right corner of Chrome.
Navigate to More Tools → Developer Tools.
** Pro Tip:** Use keyboard shortcuts for faster access:
- Windows/Linux: Press F12 or Ctrl+Shift+I
- macOS: Press Option(⌥)+Command(⌘)+I
Step 2: Disable JavaScript
Once the Developer Tools panel opens, it might look overwhelming—but don’t worry! We only need one setting.
- Look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner of the Developer Tools panel
- Click it to open the Settings
- Scroll down to the Debugger section
- Check the box next to “Disable JavaScript”
That’s it! You should now be able to drag, select text, and right-click on the website immediately.
How Does This Work?
Web browsers like Chrome naturally support text selection and right-clicking as core features. However, some websites use JavaScript code to block these default functions.
When you disable JavaScript, these blocking scripts can’t run, which means all the browser’s original features work normally again—including copying text and right-clicking to save images.
** Important Note:** Remember to re-enable JavaScript when you’re done! Many modern websites rely on JavaScript to function properly, so leaving it disabled may cause issues on other sites.
To re-enable JavaScript, simply uncheck the “Disable JavaScript” option in Developer Tools settings.
Other Simple Methods to Copy Text
Safari Reader Mode (macOS, iOS)
If you use a Mac or iPhone, Safari’s Reader Mode is the simplest option.
Just click the “aA” button to the left of the address bar and select “Show Reader View”.
Reader Mode removes ads and unnecessary elements, displaying only the clean text.
Naturally, copy-protection scripts won’t work either.
The keyboard shortcut is Shift(⇧)+Command(⌘)+R.
Using Print Preview
In Chrome, you can also use the print preview feature.
Press Ctrl+P (Command(⌘)+P on macOS) to open the print dialog.
You can then drag and copy text from the preview pane on the right.
However, this method has limitations.
If the website has a separate print layout, the displayed content may differ from what appears on screen.
Note that sidebars or images may be omitted, or the layout might change.
Chrome Extensions
If you want reading mode functionality in Chrome, you can install an extension.
** Recommended Extensions:**
- Reader View (https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/reader-view/ecabifbgmdmgdllomnfinbmaellmclnh)
- Just Read (https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/just-read/dgmanlpmmkibanfdgjocnabmcaclkmod)
After installation, clicking the extension icon switches to a clean screen similar to Safari’s Reader Mode.
You can read and copy text without copy protection applied.
Why Websites Use Copy Protection
Understanding why sites implement these restrictions can help you use bypass methods responsibly.
News Outlets and Media
Some news organizations block copying to protect content for paid subscribers.
This is especially true for premium articles or exclusive interviews.
Academic Materials and E-books
Academic paper sites and e-book platforms also restrict copying for copyright protection.
Academic databases like RISS and DBpia are prime examples.
Community Sites and Blogs
Individual blogs or online communities sometimes implement copy protection
to prevent unauthorized distribution of their posts.
Online Store Product Pages
To prevent competitors from copying product descriptions or reviews verbatim,
online stores frequently apply copy protection measures.
Understanding the Intent Behind Copy Protection
Website operators have good reasons for implementing copy protection features.
As a content creator myself, I know how much time and effort goes into producing quality content.
The process of researching, gathering materials, and writing about experiences takes considerable time.
When someone copies that content wholesale and uses it as their own,
it’s genuinely disheartening and frustrating.
** Be especially careful with paid content.**
Copy protection is a legitimate means of safeguarding revenue.
Unauthorized copying and distribution of content that should only be accessible to paying subscribers or e-book purchasers can result in legal penalties.
Of course, the intention isn’t to prevent copying small portions for personal study or note-taking.
However, because that boundary is ambiguous, many sites disable the copy function entirely.
Remember: just because you can technically bypass copy protection doesn’t mean you should use it indiscriminately. Use these methods only when truly necessary and for personal purposes—respecting others’ efforts and rights is what matters most.