Add password protection to a PDF in your browser

Encrypt a PDF locally before sending or storing it, with no account required.

✓ No account✓ Browser processing✓ Free to use

Password protection can reduce accidental access when a document is emailed or stored in a shared location. The protection is only as strong as the password and the way it is communicated.

Send the password through a different channel from the PDF. A strong password attached to the same email offers little protection if that inbox is compromised.

Tool workspace

Protect PDF

Open in a new tab

How to use Protect PDF

1
Choose the PDF and enter a long, unique password.
2
Create the protected copy in the browser.
3
Open the result in a second PDF reader and test the password before sharing.

Use a passphrase

Several unrelated words with numbers or punctuation are easier to type and usually stronger than a short complicated word.

Separate channels

Send the document by email and the password by phone, secure message or another agreed channel.

Recovery

This service cannot recover a forgotten password because it does not receive or store it. Keep a secure record where appropriate.

Important limitation

PDF password protection is not digital rights management and cannot control screenshots or copied content after an authorized recipient opens the file.

Questions about Protect PDF

Do you store the password?

No. The password is used by the browser tool for the current operation and is not sent to our server.

Can you recover a forgotten password?

No. Keep the original unprotected PDF in a secure location.

Is this the same as a digital signature?

No. Encryption controls opening; a digital signature is used to verify origin and detect changes.