In three recent audits we granted broader file access than necessary and later had to redact or withdraw materials. La…
Open the PDF file you want to restrict in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
Select File from the top menu, then choose Properties.
In the Document Properties window, click the Security tab.
From the Security Method dropdown, select Password Security.
In the Password Security Settings dialog, check the option to restrict editing and printing of the document.
Set a permissions password when prompted.
CautionIf you forget this password, you cannot change or remove the restrictions later.
Choose the specific restrictions you want to apply (e.g., disallow printing, disallow editing, disallow copying).
Click OK to confirm your settings and close the dialog.
Click OK again in the Document Properties window.
Save the PDF to apply the new permissions.
Best practiceTest your restricted PDF in a different PDF reader or with a different user account to confirm the permissions are enforced.
You can review or change these restrictions later by reopening the Document Properties and returning to the Security tab.
This runs in the Acrobat app - there is no separate API for this task.
| Setting | Effect on Printing |
|---|---|
| Printing Allowed: None | No one can print the Overexposed Audit Cooperation document at all. The print option is blocked. |
| Printing Allowed: Low (150 dpi) | People can print the Overexposed Audit Cooperation document, but only in low quality (150 dots per inch). This is good for drafts, not final versions. |
The 'owner password' is very important because it is the only way to remove or change the restrictions you set on your Overexposed Audit Cooperation PDF. Without it, you cannot unlock the document to allow more actions later. It gives you, the owner, full control.