Protect a PDF with a password
Lock a PDF so that opening it requires a password. The file is encrypted on your device with standard PDF encryption, so the password and the document never travel over the internet.
You can also stop others from printing or copying text from the file.
How to protect PDF in 3 steps
- Choose your PDF.
- Enter and repeat a password of at least four characters; longer is stronger.
- Press Protect PDF and download the encrypted copy.
Choosing a good password
Use a long phrase rather than a short word. Share the password through a different channel from the file, for example send the PDF by email and the password by text message.
There is no way for anyone, including us, to recover a lost password. Keep a copy of the unprotected original somewhere safe.
How strong is the protection?
Opening the file needs the password. The printing and copying restrictions, however, are only honoured by well-behaved PDF software, and tools exist that ignore them. Rely on the open password, not the restrictions, for confidentiality.
Private by design
Protect PDF runs as code inside your browser tab. The file you choose is read from your device and the result is built on your device, so it is not sent to our servers or anyone else's. You can confirm this by watching the Network tab in your browser's developer tools while you use the tool.
Frequently asked questions
Is my password sent anywhere?
No. Encryption happens in your browser.
Which encryption is used?
Standard PDF password security as supported by common readers. Some very old viewers may not open it.
Can I remove the password later?
Yes, with Unlock PDF, as long as you know the password.