How to password-protect a PDF (and how to remove it)

If you are sharing a sensitive document, a password is the simplest way to control who can open it. And if you receive a protected PDF whose password you know, you can unlock it.

Password-protect a PDF

  1. Open the PDF in the editor.
  2. Click Protect and enter a password.
  3. Download the encrypted PDF.

Unlock a protected PDF

  1. Open the protected PDF.
  2. Click Unlock and enter the password.
  3. Download the unprotected PDF.

Encryption and decryption happen in your browser. Keep your password safe: without it, the document cannot be recovered.

Protect a PDF now
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FAQ

What encryption does it use?

Standard PDF encryption (RC4 128-bit), compatible with most readers.

Can my password be recovered?

No. We store no passwords or files; if you lose it, the document is unrecoverable.