Lock a PDF so it can't be edited or copied
Control whether people can print, copy text or change your document.
or drop it here · paste with Ctrl+V
Processed on your device — files are never uploaded
to use this tool — every tool is free, with no daily limit.
Lock PDF from Editing: what you need to know
Sometimes you want people to read a document but not change it or copy its text — a price list, a design proposal or exam material. When protecting the PDF, untick Edit the document, Copy text and images or Print to restrict those actions.
The PDF is encrypted with AES-256 and the restrictions are honoured by standard PDF readers such as Adobe Acrobat, Preview and browser viewers.
Why use FilesForU for Lock PDF from Editing
Free, no watermark
Lock PDF from Editing is free with a free account — no daily limit and no watermark on your files.
Private
Your files are processed on your own device. They are never uploaded to our servers.
Fast
No upload and no queue, so most files are ready in seconds.
Works everywhere
Use it on Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone or Android — nothing to install.
Lock PDF from Editing in 3 steps
- 1
Choose your PDF
- 2
Set a password and untick the actions to block
- 3
Protect and download
Questions & answers
Can people still open the PDF?
Only with the password. Share it with the people who should read the document.
Are restrictions impossible to bypass?
Reputable PDF readers respect them, but restrictions are a deterrent rather than absolute protection. The password itself is what truly protects the content.
Can I remove the restrictions later?
Yes. Use Unlock PDF with the password, or keep the original file.
Are my files uploaded to your server?
No. This tool runs entirely inside your browser, so your files stay on your device. FilesForU never receives, stores or sees them.
Is it really free?
Yes. Every tool is free with a free account — no daily limit, no watermarks, and files up to 500 MB.