Sending salary slips, bank statements, ID copies or contracts? Add a password before you share them. The PDF is encrypted with AES-256, the same standard banks use, so it can only be opened by someone who knows the password. You can also block printing, copying and editing.
Tips for the best result
- Use at least 8 characters, mixing letters and numbers, for sensitive documents.
- Share the password separately — for example, send the PDF by email and the password by SMS or WhatsApp.
- Already protected? Remove the old password with Unlock PDF first.
How to protect PDF
- Click Select PDF file and choose the PDF to protect.
- Type your password twice. Optionally block copying or printing.
- Click Protect PDF.
- Download your password-protected PDF.
Why use PDFNest to protect PDF
- AES-256 encryptionThe strongest standard PDF encryption, supported by every modern PDF reader.
- Optional restrictionsBlock printing, copying text or editing for people who open the file.
- Never uploadedEncryption happens in your browser, so your unprotected file never leaves your device.
- Works on phonesProtect PDFs from Android, iPhone, tablets and computers.
Frequently asked questions
How do I put a password on a PDF?
Select your PDF, type the password twice, click Protect PDF and download the file. Anyone opening it will be asked for the password.
How secure is it?
Very. The file is encrypted with 256-bit AES. Without the password, the contents can't be read. Choose a password that's hard to guess.
What if I forget the password?
Nobody can recover it — not even us, because we never see your file or password. Keep your original unprotected copy somewhere safe.
Is my PDF uploaded to set the password?
No. Everything happens on your device, so your private document and password are never sent anywhere.