Protect your PDF and share it view-only
A PDF password protects the file only until the file and the password are passed on together. DocusPocus protects the PDF itself: it is converted into an encrypted file that opens only for the readers you choose, in a protected web reader or the DocusPocus Viewer, and you can update it or revoke access at any time.
How to protect a PDF with DocusPocus
- Upload your PDF Create a free account and publish the PDF as a protected e-book or document. DocusPocus converts it into an encrypted .dcspcs file.
- Choose who can read it Invite readers by email, add them to a zone, or grant access automatically through your checkout or the Developer API. Access can be lifetime or time-limited.
- Readers open it in the protected reader Readers sign in and read on the web or in the free desktop Viewer for Windows and macOS. Replace the PDF whenever you like; everyone with access sees the new version.
What protects your PDF
Encrypted file
Your PDF is stored and delivered as an AES-256-GCM encrypted .dcspcs file that standard PDF readers cannot open.
No download link
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
In the Viewer, every printed page carries a 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.
Always up to date
Update the PDF once and every reader with access gets the latest version.
PDF password or DocusPocus?
| PDF password | DocusPocus | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can open it | Anyone who has the file and the password | Only readers you have given access |
| Passing it on | The file and the password can be forwarded together | Access belongs to each reader's account |
| Printing | Depends on the reader app | Personal watermark on every printed page in the Viewer |
| Removing access | Not possible once the file is shared | Revoke access at any time |
| Updating | Send a new file to everyone | Replace the PDF; readers see the new version |
Questions about protecting PDFs
How do I protect a PDF from copying?
Publish it with DocusPocus instead of sending the file. Readers open it in the protected reader, the PDF itself is never handed over, and in the Viewer printing is watermarked and saving as PDF is blocked.
Can I make a PDF view-only?
Yes. A protected PDF opens for reading in the DocusPocus web reader or Viewer; readers do not receive an editable or downloadable PDF.
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.
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.