Why can’t I copy text from my password-protected PDF?

[niamhmurphy]

I am trying to copy some text from a PDF document, but copy and paste is blocked. The file is not damaged, and I can open it with the password. The issue is only with copying content for editing notes. I need a safe method to remove this restriction without losing the original formatting. What is the best way to manage this locked PDF file?

 

[tylerhoward]

It is impossible to copy text from a password protected PDF file since there are restrictions on this file which do not allow any actions, including copying, editing and printing of the document, for security purposes.

Relevance: In case you can open and view the file, you still cannot use its content as long as copying is blocked.

Workaround: Of course, typing the whole text is an option. Yet it may be very time-consuming and error-prone.

What to do? If you are allowed to use this text in your project, this is the most appropriate thing to do – use a reliable utility like Softaken Unlock PDF Files to unlock restrictions to copy or export the content of the document.

This application can remove these restrictions, letting you copy or export the content safely.