Protect a PDF from copying
The copy restriction in a PDF is a setting inside the file, and each PDF app decides whether to follow it. DocusPocus keeps the PDF out of readers' hands instead. They read it in the protected web reader, where every page arrives as an image with no text to select, or in the DocusPocus Viewer, where saving as PDF is blocked and printed pages carry their personal watermark.
How to make a PDF non-copyable with DocusPocus
- Upload your PDF Create a free account and publish the PDF as a protected e-book or zone document. It is converted into an encrypted DocusPocus file.
- Choose who can read it Invite readers by email, add them to a zone, or grant access through your store or the Developer API.
- Readers read, they do not receive Readers open the document in the protected reader on the web or in the Viewer. The original PDF is never handed over.
How DocusPocus keeps your PDF from being copied
No text layer on the web
The web reader receives each page as an image. Text, fonts and the PDF structure never reach the browser, and right-click and text selection are disabled.
No PDF to pass on
Readers never receive the original PDF. The only downloadable copy is the encrypted file, which opens in the Viewer for readers with access.
Watermarked printing
Printing is yours to allow. Every page printed from the Viewer carries the reader's personal watermark, and saving as PDF is blocked.
One device at a time
Viewer sessions are managed so each reader views the content on one device at a time.
Access you control
Grant lifetime or time-limited access and revoke it whenever you need to.
Update without resending
Replace the PDF once; everyone reading online sees the new version.
PDF copy restriction or DocusPocus?
| PDF copy restriction | DocusPocus | |
|---|---|---|
| Where the rule lives | A setting inside the PDF file | In the protected reader; the PDF stays with DocusPocus |
| Copying text | Blocked only in apps that follow the setting | No text to select in the web reader |
| Passing the file on | The PDF can be forwarded to anyone | The encrypted file opens only for readers with access |
| Printing | Depends on the PDF app | Only if you allow it, with a personal watermark |
Questions about protecting PDFs from copying
How do I protect a PDF from copying?
Publish it with DocusPocus instead of sending the file. Readers read it in the protected reader, which shows pages as images in the browser, and the PDF itself is never handed over.
Can readers copy text from the web reader?
No. The web reader shows every page as an image, so there is no text to select or copy, and right-click is disabled.
Can I still let readers print?
Yes, if you allow it. Every page printed from the Viewer carries the reader's personal watermark, and saving as PDF is blocked.
Do my readers need an account?
Yes. Readers sign in so that access belongs to them. They can read in the browser or in the free desktop Viewer.
Is DocusPocus free?
The free plan includes 1 e-book, 1 zone, 100 managed members and 1 GB of storage. Paid plans start at $3.99 per month, and DocusPocus never takes a commission on your sales.
Share your document with peace of mind.
Your file stays encrypted, opens only for the people you allow, and you decide how long they can read it.
Missing a feature? Tell us — we'll do our best to build it. info@docuspocus.com