How to add a password to a PDF

If you are sending salary slips, contracts or ID copies, a password stops anyone else who gets the file from opening it. Protect PDF locks the file with an open-password that you choose.

Steps

Open Protect PDF. Upload the PDF.
Set a password. Use 4 to 64 characters. Longer and unique is better.
Confirm the password. Type it a second time. The password is the only setting you choose.
Download and share the password separately. Send the password through a different channel from the file.

Open the tool: Protect PDF

Good to know

A forgotten password cannot be recovered, so keep a record of it.
Anyone with the password can open the file, so share it only with the intended person.
Printing stays allowed; copying text and editing are restricted. These permissions are fixed and respected by compliant PDF readers.
To remove the password later, use Unlock PDF with the password.

Frequently asked questions

How long can the password be?

Between 4 and 64 characters.

Can I stop people copying text?

Copying and editing are restricted automatically in the protected file, and printing stays allowed. You cannot change these permissions on the tool page, and anyone with the password can open the file.

What if I forget the password?

It cannot be recovered. Keep a safe copy of it.

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