Unlock a PDF
Remove print, copy and edit restrictions from a PDF — or unlock one you have the password for. It runs entirely in your browser; your file is never uploaded.
Two kinds of PDF password
- Owner / permissions password — the PDF opens normally but blocks printing, copying or editing. We remove this instantly, no password required.
- User / open password — a password is needed even to open the file. If you know it, enter it above and we’ll produce an unrestricted copy. If you’ve forgotten it, no tool can simply strip it — it has to be recovered by computation (our pay-on-success recovery service, coming soon).
How it works
We use qpdf (an open-source PDF library) compiled to WebAssembly, running inside your browser. It reads the PDF’s encryption, removes the security handler, and writes a clean copy. Your text, images and layout are unchanged — only the lock is gone.
Is this legal?
Removing restrictions from your own PDF, or one you’re authorised to use, is a normal administrative task. Only unlock files you own or have permission to modify.
Frequently asked
Is my file uploaded? No — everything happens locally in your browser.
It keeps asking for a password. The file has an open password and the one entered didn’t match. If it’s forgotten, use our pay-on-success recovery service.
What about scanned or printed protection? This removes PDF-level encryption and permissions, not visible watermarks.