Prevent Printing of a PDF Document

It is possible to password protect PDF documents to prevent printing or editing.

NOTE: This will not absolutely prevent a person from printing your document, as a determined person might find a way to do it, but this process will discourage it.

1. Open the document in Adobe Acrobat (not Adobe Reader). If you do not have access to Adobe Acrobat, contact the HelpDesk.
2. Go to View --> Tools --> Protection to open the Protection pane.
3. Click More Protection --> Security Properties to open the Security tab on the Document Properties window.
4. In the Security Method drop down, choose Password Security and click Change Settings to open the Password Security - Settings window.
5. Un-check the Require a password to open the document option, and adjust the Printing Allowed and Changes Allowed drop downs to your chosen setting.
6. Enter a password in the Change Permissions Password box.
7. Click OK to close the Password Security - Settings window.
8. Click OK to close the Document Properties window.
9. Save your document.