How to Protect PDF Files

Contracts, financial reports and personal records shouldn't be viewable by anyone who receives them by mistake. Without protection, a forwarded email exposes the file.

PDFs support two kinds of password: an open password that blocks opening the file and a permissions password that restricts printing, copying or editing.

1. 1

   Choose a protect PDF tool

   Use a reputable browser tool or a desktop editor that supports AES-256 encryption.

2. 2

   Upload the PDF

   Drop your file into the tool.

3. 3

   Set a strong password

   Use at least 12 characters mixing letters, numbers and symbols.

4. 4

   Pick permission settings (optional)

   Restrict printing, copying or editing if you also want to limit actions.

5. 5

   Download the protected PDF

   Save the encrypted file and share the password through a separate channel.

• Never send the password in the same email as the PDF.
• Use a password manager to store and share passwords safely.
• Choose AES-256 over older 40- or 128-bit encryption when available.
• Test the protected file before sending it to important recipients.

Protecting a PDF with a strong password is one of the easiest security wins available. Choose AES-256 encryption, use a long random password, and share it securely.