How to lock a confidential business report with a password
- Step 1Compile the final report PDF — Merge all sections into the final board pack PDF.
- Step 2Set a unique per-meeting password — Use a different password for each meeting to limit exposure window.
- Step 3Distribute the encrypted PDF — Send to board members via email.
- Step 4Share the password out-of-band — Send the password by SMS or phone before the meeting.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use different passwords for each board member?+
Technically possible but impractical. Use one strong password per meeting and revoke access by keeping the next meeting's PDF separate.
What happens when the password is no longer needed?+
You can remove the password using the PDF Remove Password tool when the document is ready for archiving without restriction.
Can the PDF be printed without a password after opening?+
Printing permissions are separate from open permissions. Use the Permission Setter tool to restrict printing in addition to the open password.
Privacy first
All PDF processing runs locally in your browser using PDF-lib and pdf.js. No file is ever uploaded — only metadata counters are saved for signed-in dashboard stats.