You can remove security settings from a PDF file that is already opened. However, it requires the correct permissions password if the PDF file has already been encrypted with permissions password security.

Remove password security

  1. Open the PDF and do any of the following:

    • Choose Security > Encryption > Encryption > Remove Security Settings and then click OK to remove it from the document.

    • Open the Document Properties dialog box, click the Security tab, and then choose No Security from the Security Method drop-down menu.

  1. Options available may vary depending on the type of password security applied to the document:

    • For documents protected by an Open password, click OK.

    • For documents protected by a Permissions password, enter the correct permissions password in the Enter Password field and then click OK.

  1. Click Save Now to apply the changes to the document. Click OK.


To remove security settings of a document encrypted with permissions password security, select No Security and then type the correct password in the Enter Password field.

Remove certificate security

Do one of the following:

  • Choose Security > Encryption > Encryption > Remove Security Settings. Click OK.

  • Open the Document Properties dialog box, click the Security tab, and choose No Security from the Security Method drop-down menu. Click OK.

More Resources...