Restrict Editing on a Google Docs PDF Using Adobe Acrobat
Using Adobe Acrobat to restrict editing on a PDF from Google Docs gives you the most control. Acrobat lets you specify exactly which actions are allowed, apply AES-256 encryption to the restrictions, and set separate open and permissions passwords.
Opening the security settings
After exporting from Google Docs with the Docs to PDF extension, open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat. Go to Tools in the right panel and select Protection, then Encrypt with Password. If Tools is not visible, go to View > Tools > Protection.
Configuring the permissions
Enable 'Restrict editing and printing of the document.' Enter a permissions password. In the Permissions section, configure each setting: Printing Allowed (none, low-resolution, or high-resolution), Changes Allowed (none, inserting, deleting, rotating, filling forms, commenting, or any changes), and whether to enable copying of text and images.
Setting the compatibility level
In the Compatibility dropdown, select Acrobat X and later. This applies AES-256 encryption to the restrictions. Older compatibility settings use weaker encryption for the permissions themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add restrictions to a PDF that already has an open password?
Yes. Open the file with the open password, then go to the security settings to add or modify permissions restrictions.
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