Encrypting a PDF is the process of protecting a PDF file with a password or other encryption method to prevent unauthorized access to its contents. For instance, encrypting a PDF containing confidential financial information ensures that only authorized individuals with the password can open and view the document.
PDF encryption is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information in various industries, including finance, healthcare, and legal sectors. It protects data from theft, leaks, and unauthorized modifications. The development of strong encryption algorithms, such as AES-256, has significantly enhanced the security of PDF encryption.