A PDF without a password is like a letter in a clear envelope. Anyone who picks it up can read it.
What encryption we use
- **AES-256** — an available encryption option in the tool
- **User password** — required to *open* the PDF
- **Owner password** — controls printing, copying, editing, extracting
When to protect
- Financial documents (bank statements, invoices)
- Aadhaar / PAN / ID proofs
- Medical records
- Legal contracts
- HR documents
Strong password tips
- Minimum 12 characters
- Mix uppercase, lowercase, digits, symbols
- Never reuse a password
- Use a password manager
Recovery
If you lose the password, recovery is effectively impossible with AES-256. That's the point. Always keep a backup.