PDF Tools
Protect PDF
Add basic protection to a PDF document: flatten forms, add a protection watermark, and mark it as protected. For full password encryption, a server-side tool is recommended.
Upload a PDF to add basic protection.
Usage notes
- This tool provides visual protection (watermark) and form flattening.
- True PDF password encryption (AES-256) requires server-side processing.
- Forms are flattened so filled data cannot be changed.
- Use Compress PDF afterward if you need an email-ready attachment.
Related pages
How to Use This Tool
- 1Upload a PDF file.
- 2Review the browser-side protection notes for form flattening and visible protection.
- 3Click 'Protect PDF and Download' to apply protection.
- 4The output has flattened forms and a protection watermark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does this add real password encryption?
- No. Browser-based PDF libraries cannot apply AES encryption. This tool applies visual protection (watermark), flattens forms, and marks the document. For true password-protected PDFs, use a desktop application or server-side tool.
- What protections are applied?
- Interactive form fields are flattened (made non-editable), a subtle 'PROTECTED DOCUMENT' watermark is added to each page footer, and metadata is updated.
- Is my file uploaded?
- No. All processing happens in your browser. Your PDF never leaves your device.
- Can I remove the protection?
- The watermark is drawn directly on pages. Form flattening is irreversible. Keep the original file if you need an unprotected version.