Security Questions - Watch window and xlVeryHidden

[ddavenport]

I have a workbook that has several sheets that are xlVeryHidden. They are only accessible through a password protected vb function. I realize that most of the data in excel is not very secure, but I have noticed a combination of big holes that I was wondering how any of you would/have addressed them.

The first is the fact that even though the tabs are xlVeryHidden, they are also sheet protected and when you are on the FILE tab the PERMISSION section lists the Sheets which are protected.

With this info, what stops a general user from using FORMULAS - WATCH WINDOW from view all of the cell content on the hidden tabs?

Don

 

[Jonmo1]

Nothing can prevent that.
And you said yourself that Excel is not secure.

And in reality, Security is an illusion.
Any lock a human can create, can also be broken by another human.
Locks are only as effective as the level of intelligence and determination of those you intend to secure against.

 

[ddavenport]

Agreed, I am just trying to make sure there isn't a better lock out there. I might as well use what I can. For the most part, this particular workbook is for common users and there is no truly confidential data. I am just looking for best practices for other scenarios which may have more sensetive data.

Thanks for the quick reply.

 

[Jonmo1]

A Password protected and veryhidden sheet is about as good as it gets in Excel.

 

[ddavenport]

A Password protected and veryhidden sheet is about as good as it gets in Excel.

Along similar lines. Even with data validation on certain cells with Error Alert set to stop, you can simply say =Sheet1!A1 and instead of hitting enter, simply click off the cell and it will show the data of that cell.Anything to prevent this?