How it works
Encrypt mode adds a password to your PDF using the standard PDF security handler. Decrypt mode removes that password when you supply the correct one. After every operation the tool reloads its own output to check the result: an encrypted file must refuse to open without the password and with a wrong one, and a decrypted file must open with no password. If a check fails, no download is offered.
Good to know
- The algorithm shown on the result card is read from the output file itself, not assumed.
- Re-saving a PDF can invalidate digital signatures and may not preserve every feature (some forms, attachments or structure). Keep your original and check the output.
- If you lose the password, the file cannot be recovered. Nothing is stored.
- Opening password and owner permissions are different things. Permission flags are honoured by compliant readers but are not unbreakable.
- Use a current Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari with Web Crypto support.
FAQ
Can I remove a PDF password without knowing it?
No. This tool only unlocks files when you provide the correct password. It does not guess or crack passwords.
Does the tool upload my file?
No. Processing happens in your browser memory. The only network request is loading the PDF library script.
Does permission protection stop all copying?
No. Print, copy and edit restrictions are enforced by compliant readers only.
Can I encrypt an already-encrypted PDF?
Not directly. Unlock it first with its current password, then encrypt the unlocked copy.
Will digital signatures stay valid?
Assume not. Rewriting a PDF generally invalidates existing signatures.
What if my PDF uses an unsupported encryption format?
The tool reports that it could not decrypt the file and creates no output.