Restricting what recipients can do with a PDF — such as preventing printing, copying text, or making edits — is possible using PDF permissions passwords. Here is how to apply them for free without Adobe Acrobat.
PDFs support two password types: a User Password (opens the file) and an Owner Password (controls permissions). You can set permissions without requiring a User Password — so the file opens freely but printing or copying is blocked unless the recipient has the Owner Password.
Go to pdfeditor.onl/protect-pdf. Upload your PDF. The tool uses 128-bit RC4 encryption — the PDF 1.7 standard — applied entirely in your browser.
Enter a strong owner password. This password is required to change permissions later. Choose something you will remember — it cannot be recovered if lost.
Tip: You do not need to set a User Password if you want the file to open freely. Just set the Owner Password to lock permissions without gating access.
Select which actions to restrict: printing, copying text, filling forms, or modifying the document. Enable the permissions you want to block. Leave others unchecked to allow them.
Click Encrypt & Download. The PDF is now protected with permissions. When opened in compliant PDF readers like Adobe Reader, the restricted actions will be grayed out or unavailable.
PDF permissions are honored by compliant readers like Adobe Reader and Chrome. However, determined users with specialized tools can bypass permissions. For truly sensitive content, use a strong User Password as well.
No. PDF permissions only control in-app actions like right-click copy. Anyone can still take a screenshot. For truly secure distribution, consider watermarking the document.
Yes. Set only an Owner Password and enable restrictions. The file opens freely but actions like printing are blocked in compliant readers.