Protect PDF
Password-protect a PDF in your browser with AES-256 encryption, and optionally block printing or copying. Free, no uploads.
Runs in your browser. Files never leave your device
About Protect PDF
Add a password so only the people you share it with can open your PDF. The file is encrypted with AES-256, the strongest encryption PDFs support, and opens in any modern PDF reader once the password is entered.
You can also stop printing, copying or editing. The password never leaves your device: the file is encrypted in your browser.
How to use Protect PDF
- 1Add a PDF file.
- 2Type a password twice and choose what readers may do.
- 3Click Protect PDF and download the encrypted file.
Frequently asked questions
Is my PDF or password sent anywhere?
No. The file is encrypted on your device, in your browser. Neither the PDF nor the password is uploaded, saved or logged.
How secure is it?
The PDF is encrypted with AES-256. With a long, unique password, it can't realistically be opened without the password. Short or common passwords can be guessed, so use our password generator for a strong one.
What if I forget the password?
It can't be recovered, by us or anyone else. Keep the password somewhere safe, such as a password manager, and keep an unprotected copy if you might need one.
What do the printing and copying options do?
They ask PDF readers not to allow printing, copying text or editing. Most readers respect them, but they're easier to get around than the password itself, so don't rely on them alone.
Which apps can open the protected PDF?
Any current PDF reader, including Adobe Acrobat, Preview on Mac, and the readers built into Chrome, Edge and Firefox.