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How to Password-Protect a PDF (and Unlock One You Have the Password For)
Encrypt a PDF with AES, restrict printing and copying, or remove protection from a PDF you own — free and in your browser.
Bank statements, salary slips and ID proofs should not travel unprotected. A password on the PDF means that if the email goes astray, the contents stay private.
How to password-protect a PDF
- Open Protect PDF and add your file.
- Enter a strong password. Optionally block printing, copying or editing.
- Download the encrypted PDF.
Protect PDF
Password-protect a PDF free — encryption happens on your device.
The PDF is encrypted with AES, the standard used by modern PDF software. Strength still depends on your password, so make it long. If you forget it, it cannot be recovered by anyone.
How to unlock a PDF
If you know the password (or the PDF only restricts printing or copying), Unlock PDF removes the protection and gives you a normal PDF.
- It does not guess or crack unknown passwords.
- Only unlock files that belong to you or that you have permission to change.
Sharing something sensitive?
If you need to hide parts of a document permanently — account numbers, addresses — use Redact PDF rather than just password-protecting it. Redaction removes the content itself.
Frequently asked questions
Can I remove a PDF password if I forgot it?
No. Unlock PDF removes protection when you know the password or when the file only has usage restrictions. It cannot crack passwords.
How secure is PDF password protection?
AES encryption is strong, but a short or common password is easy to guess. Use a long, unique password.
Is my password sent anywhere?
No. Everything happens in your browser.
