PDF Security

Create a separate, password-protected copy of the PDF you have open. RaioPDF uses strong AES-256 encryption and leaves the original file unchanged. Use this when you need to share a PDF while limiting who can open it.

Create a protected copy

1. Open the PDF.
2. Choose Legal → PDF Security.
3. Enter the Open password twice. Use at least 8 characters; RaioPDF recommends 12 or more.
4. Leave Allow printing and Allow copying on, or turn either one off.
5. Click Create Protected Copy and choose where to save it.
6. When verification finishes, choose Open Protected Copy if you want to switch to it.

The protected copy includes edits that have not yet been saved to the original. The original stays open, keeps its current unsaved state, and is never replaced.

Printing and copying

The open password encrypts the file. The printing and copying settings ask PDF programs to limit those actions, but some programs may ignore the request. Accessibility access remains available.

Save an unlocked copy

Open PDF Security for a protected PDF that RaioPDF has unlocked. Choose Save Unlocked Copy to write a separate copy without encryption. The protected original is not changed.

Passwords and file types

• RaioPDF does not store or recover passwords. Keep yours somewhere safe. When practical, send the PDF and its password through different channels.
• Digitally signed PDFs are blocked. Rewriting one could invalidate its signature. Protect the PDF before signing it.
• PDF/A needs confirmation. PDF/A is a format meant for long-term archiving, and it does not allow encryption. RaioPDF asks before continuing, and the original PDF/A file stays untouched.
• Protection does not clean the PDF. Metadata — hidden details such as the author and the software that made the file — is encrypted, not removed. Use Scrub Metadata or Sanitize separately when you need those changes.
• This is an installed-app feature. It is not available in the browser help preview or through RaioPDF's AI connector.